Eric J. Byrne
Question:27 Mr. E. Byrne asked the Minister for the Marine when it is expected that Ireland will ratify the OSPAR Convention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5138/96]
Written Answers. - Ratification of OSPAR Convention.
I expect that Ireland will be in a position to ratify the Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic (generally known as the OSPAR Convention) as soon as the Dumping at Sea Bill, 1995, has been enacted. The Deputy will be aware that this Bill is currently before the Seanad and I am hopeful that it will clear all stages quite soon. When this Bill is enacted we will be in a position to ratify the Convention.