asked the Minister for the Environment the action he is tak-ing arising out of the Inter-Departmental Report on Pollution, Paragraph 7.7.2, in particular; and the general capacity of this country to handle a pollution threat.
Written Answers. - Pollution Report.
358.
As indicated in the GIS release of 14 June 1978 relating to the Report on Pollution Control, the Government decided that the recommendation in the report prepared by the inter-departmental environment committee, would be considered by the Departments concerned. It was also indicated that the committee would monitor the consideration of matters arising from the report.
The consideration indicated is in hands and my Department are in communication with other Departments concerned about the recommendations including the recommendation in paragraph 7.7.2 which relates to marine pollution functions. I expect that the committee will assess and report on progress in due course.
In regard to the general position, it was indicated in the Report on Pollution Control that taking account of measures in hand and those planned for improving and extending existing control systems, or establishing new ones, the overall picture as regards regulatory provision for pollution control was considered generally satisfactory. The Water Pollution Act, 1977 has now been brought into operation and work is progressing in my Department on reviewing the control provisions relating to other aspects of pollution with a view to introduction of any further measures that may be required.
The comprehensive arrangements that exist for dealing with oil spillages, and the fact that they are kept under regular review, were explained in my reply to the Adjournment Debate on 17 October 1978.