I propose to take Questions Nos. 7 and 8 together. In a radio interview, I sought to dismiss some of the more widely exaggerated comments about the situation in Dublin which sought to suggest that Dublin city's pollution problems were in some way unique or that the problem in Dublin this winter was more than anything previously experienced.
The facts are that a significant number of European Community cities are in breach of the Community's smoke limits and in Dublin this winter to date has not been worse than previous winters as regards the problem of smog.
I also stated categorically that the problem would be dealt with and the Government have now decided to secure an immediate end to the smog problem in Dublin by directly tackling its source which is the burning of bituminous coal. Accordingly the marketing, sale and distribution of bituminous coal in the builtup area of Dublin will be prohibited with effect from 1 October 1990. The Government are confident that this prohibition will have widespread public support and will end the smog problems experienced in Dublin. This measure is part of a comprehensive environmental action programme to give effect to my pledge of a `Green Presidency' which has, I am glad to say, been widely welcomed.