I propose to take Questions Nos. 409 and 410 together.
I refer to the reply to Question No. 51 of 28 January 1999. My Department has maintained close contact with the Irish Detergent and Allied Products Association in relation to the reduction of phosphates in detergents. Three meetings have been held between departmental officials and industry representatives over the past 12 months, with a further meeting arranged for next week. In addition, there have been many other contacts by way of phone, letter and fax. I will be taking a final decision on the possible adoption of a voluntary agreement in this regard within two to three weeks.
While my Department does not hold comprehensive information on legislation in other countries, I understand that Italy is the only member state of the EU which has imposed a total ban on the use of phosphorus-based detergents.