Vol. 508 No. 1
581 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there is non-compliance with the building, health and safety regulations in relation to septic tanks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18544/99]
I am aware that certain allegations regarding septic tanks have been made by the manufacturer of an alternative sewage treatment system. I understand that these allegations have been the subject of a complaint to the Advertising Standards Authority of Ireland which has upheld part of the complaint. I do not think it would be appropriate to comment on allegations made by the manufacturer of one commercial product against a competing product.
A septic tank installed in accordance with Part H of the second schedule to the building regulations and the related technical guidance document H (drainage and waste water disposal) would comply with the building code. Compliance with the building code is primarily the responsibility of the designers, builders and owners of the houses involved. The regulations apply to septic tanks installed on or after 1 June 1992.
The enforcement of the building regulations is a matter for the local building control authorities.
On wider issues relating to septic tanks, I refer to my reply to Questions Nos. 591 and 616 on today's Order Paper.
