Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 20 Oct 1992

Vol. 423 No. 8

Written Answers. - Toxic Waste Disposal.

Tom Enright

Question:

22 Mr. Enright asked the Minister for the Environment if the Government has finalised its specifications for a toxic waste incinerator; the number of proposals which have been received for the construction and operation of such an incinerator; the plans, if any, which have been made in relation to the location of such an incinerator; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Peter Barry

Question:

48 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for the Environment the present position regarding the proposal to establish a toxic waste disposal facility; if a site has been earmarked; the estimated cost to the Exchequer; and if a public enquiry as to the suitability of the site will be held.

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 22 and 48 together.

Securing the provision of a central hazardous waste incinerator to serve Irish industry is a standing policy objective. Following the decision of Du Pont (UK) not to proceed with their proposal for such an incinerator in Derry, hazardous waste disposal requirements are being actively reviewed in the light of factors such as emerging higher emission standards, changed market conditions and possible new incineration requirements.

There is currently no firm proposal regarding the location or cost of a hazardous waste incinerator; any such proposal would of course be subject to the requirements of planning and environmental legislation.