Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 18 Feb 1992

Vol. 415 No. 8

Written Answers. - Use of Agricultural Chemicals.

Phil Hogan

Question:

331 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment if he will outline the legislative powers at his disposal to protect the general public from risks arising from pesticides and fungicides; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment (Miss Harney)

I refer to the reply to Question No. 150 of 10 December 1991, which dealt with the maximum admissible concentration values prescribed for pesticides in water intended for human consumption. The Local Government (Water Pollution) Acts, 1977 and 1990, may be availed of by local authorities to regulate water pollution caused by pesticides and fungicides.

The Minister for Agriculture and Food is responsible for legislation relating to the classification, packaging, labelling and marketing of these substances and residues in foodstuffs.