Vol. 498 No. 3
66 Mr. Gormley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the call by the former Director of Consumer Affairs to ban the use of phthalates in the production of children's toys; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27156/98]
I am aware of the call referred to by the Deputy.
The issue of phthalates in the production of toys has been considered by the EU scientific committee on toxicity, ecoctoxicity and the environment. An opinion from this committee has led to the European Commission recommendation of 1 July 1998 covering childcare articles and soft toys made of soft PVC, which calls on member states to carry out some scientific tests. In the case of Ireland, the Director of Consumer Affairs has asked Enterprise Ireland to carry out such tests, the results of which are awaited.
There is currently no proposal from the European Commission for action at Community level which would bind member states. In the light of the results of such tests I understand that the European Commission may put forward a proposal for permanent legislation which will ensure a high level of safety and health under harmonised conditions.
