Ned O'Keeffe
Question:43 Mr. E. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if he will ban the use of the weedkiller paraquat spray.
Written Answers. - Paraquat Spray.
Statutory regulations which implement EC legislation provide that pesticides, including herbicides such as paraquat, may be sold only if they have received clearance from my Department to the effect that they do not constitute a danger to health or safety when used in accordance with instructions. The regulations lay down conditions regarding classification, packaging and labelling of pesticides placed on the market. The risks involved in their use must be indicated and suitable advice on safety must be given on the labels and packages. These conditions are observed in relation to paraquat, so the question of a ban under the regulations for which I am responsible does not arise.