andMr. Quinn asked the Minister for Labour if he is aware of the widespread concern and the strong views expressed by senior staff of the Cork County Council regarding the proposed transport by rail of bulk ammonia from the NET plant in Cork through Dublin to Arklow and if he will introduce regulations to control the transport of such materials as a matter of urgency.
Written Answers. - Bulk Ammonia Transportation.
59.
As soon as the Dangerous Substances Act, 1972, comes into operation, I shall have certain responsibilities in relation to this matter and I will examine the position with regard to bye-laws for the transport by rail of dangerous substances including ammonia.
In the interim I am informed by CIE that the equipment to be used conforms to the best international standards and the board operate the stringent international practices laid down for the movement of dangerous goods by rail, that is, the RID agreement. Special training is provided for staff involved in these operations.
In addition, a scheme has been agreed at inter-departmental level for the co-ordination of emergency services for the purposes of dealing with any accident involving ammonia in transit.