Vol. 522 No. 4
173 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if levels of air pollution recorded at various locations throughout the country are a cause for concern; the plans, if any, to address the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18957/00]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 197 of 24 May 2000.
While air quality in Ireland is generally good, it is recognised that new EU limit values for particulate matter and nitrogen oxides will be challenging in urban areas with heavy traffic. Measures designed to ensure the standards are met include the introduction of improved fuel standards earlier this year, improved standards for emissions from new vehicles and the introduction of the national car test. In addition, the ban on the marketing, sale and distribution of bituminous coal is being extended to five new areas from next October.
