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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 25 Jan 1989

Vol. 386 No. 1

Written Answers. - Smoke Detectors.

218.

asked the Minister for the Environment if he will introduce legislation to make the installation of smoke detectors in this country mandatory, as has been done in the United States, having regard to the fact that some, at least, of the recent tragedies caused by fire could have been avoided by the installation of smoke detectors; and, in particular, if he will make it obligatory that such detectors be fitted by local authorities in all publicly provided housing.

The Building Control Bill at present before the Dáil contains provisions which would enable regulations to be made requiring fire alarms to be provided in new buildings.

On a number of occasions in recent years I have drawn attention to the value of smoke detectors and I have advocated their installation in houses as a precaution against fire. A number of publicity campaigns to highlight the advantages of having smoke detectors in houses have been run by the National Safety Council and the former Fire Prevention Council. The management and maintenance of their housing stocks are, of course, matters for the housing authorities and it would be open to them to arrange for the installation of smoke alarms in their dwellings if they should so decide.

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