asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to reports (details supplied) indicating that vegetation in several parts of Ireland is being ravished by various forms of noxious pollutants, if he intends to implement the proposals made in the report with regard to the need for a rigorous environmental impact analysis for commercial developments, and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Noxious Pollutants.
347.
I am aware of the report in question which refers to a paper delivered at a Conference on Environmental Impact Assessment held on 8 and 9 November 1979 which was organised by the Institute for Industrial Research and Standards. Legislation governing environmental impact assessment is contained in the Local Government (Planning and Development) Acts 1963 and 1976 and in regulations made thereunder. Under these provisions which came into operation in March 1977 an application for planning permission for certain types of development must be accompanied by a written study of what, if any, effect the proposed development, if carried out, would have on the environment.