Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Mar 1997

Vol. 477 No. 1

Written Answers. - Control of Farmyard Pollution.

Brendan Smith

Question:

139 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the concerns of owners of small pig and poultry units in relation to the substantial costs involved in applying for Environmental Protection Agency pollution control licences; if his attention has further been drawn to the difficulties which will arise in relation to the provision of such units planned for gley soil sites; the proposals, if any, he has to address those concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8601/97]

Minister for the Environment (Mr. Howlin)

I refer to the reply to Question Nos. 310, 364 and 365 of 25 September 1996. Since then, in the context of Partnership 2000, my Department has agreed to enter into negotiations with farm organisations regarding the cost and scope of integrated pollution control licensing for intensive agriculture activities. These negotiations are now in progress.