asked the Minister for Health the reasons for the failure to implement, within the allotted period, the EEC directive on chemical substances in cosmetic products and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Chemical Substances in Cosmetics.
425.
The directive to which the Deputy refers—Directive No. 76/768/EEC— was in fact amended by Directive No. 79/661/EEC adopted on the 27 July 1979. The latter directive extended until 31 December 1980 the transitional period during which cosmetic products containing certain prohibited substances and colouring agents could be allowed to remain on the market, which period would otherwise have expired on 31 July 1979.
Draft regulations for the purpose of giving effect to the directives have been prepared following detailed consultation with the pharmaceutical industry and have been transmitted to the Commission for consideration. If there are no difficulties—and I do not foresee any—I would expect to lay the regulations before the Houses of the Oireachtas at an early date.