asked the Minister for Health if any studies have been commissioned by him of the effects of leaded petrol; and if he considers that widespread use of leaded petrol in this country at present constitutes a health hazard.
Written Answers. - Leaded Petrol.
91.
No studies have been commissioned by my Department as to the health effects of leaded petrol but they have kept in touch with a number of studies internationally on possible effects on health arising from lead levels in the human body.
Tests on blood lead levels which have been carried out in this country have shown that these levels were within criteria established by the EC.
It is desirable in the interests of public health to eliminate so far as practicable any factor which contributes to the body burden of lead. For this reason, I welcome the measures introduced from I April 1986 by the Minister for the Environment which require a significant reduction in the lead content of petrol marketed in the State. That Minister has also announced that steps will be taken to ensure the introduction of unleaded petrol at the earliest possible date.