Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 16 Jun 1993

Vol. 432 No. 4

Written Answers. - Medical Waste Disposal.

Seán Haughey

Question:

90 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Health the arrangements, if any, which are currently in place for the safe and proper disposal of syringes, needles and similar devices; and if he has satisfied himself with these arrangements.

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

Used syringes, needles and similar devices arising in the public health services are placed in purpose designed sharps containers and destroyed by incineration.

This is the accepted method of disposal of such material, and is widely used internationally.