Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 6 Oct 1998

Vol. 494 No. 4

Written Answers. - Health and Safety of Workers.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

143 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if her attention has been drawn to the incidence of asbestos related mesothelioma among public sector employees including construction workers, plumbers, electricians and others in the period since the dangers of asbestos first became known in the mid 1960s; the steps, if any, taken to protect public sector employees from these health risks; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18419/98]

Minister for Public Enterprise (Mrs. O'Rourke)

I can comment on this matter only in so far as my Department is concerned.

While my Department is aware of the dangers associated with asbestos, its own staff are not exposed to risks in this regard. Health and safety issues in the State-sponsored bodies under the aegis of my Department are operational matters for the companies themselves, and as such I have no function in this area.