asked the Minister for Labour if he has under consideration the introduction of new mine-safety legislation; if he has held discussions with the unions concerned; if so, if new legislation has the support of the unions representing the employees; and when it is proposed to introduce this legislation.
Written Answers. - Mine-Safety Legislation.
152.
Drafts for the following regulations to be made under the Mines and Quarries Act, 1965, have been prepared: Mines (General) (Amendment) Regulations; Mines (Electricity) (Amendment) Regulations; and Mines (Safety Training) Regulations.
The procedure laid down in the Second Schedule to the Mines and Quarries Act, 1965, is being followed. To date no union objections have been received in respect of the draft regulations which have been published. Any representations duly received will, of course, receive full consideration. It is not possible at this stage to give a date for the making of the proposed regulations but the usual procedure regarding the laying of statutory instruments before both Houses of the Oireachtas will apply.