Vol. 535 No. 1
111 Mr. Sargent asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the ethical and environmental standards which govern the support and permission for the establishment of a factory to manufacture mercury soap here; and if she will respond to concerns regarding the toxicity of mercury and the production of a product containing mercury. [11707/01]
I am aware of one factory in Ireland which manufactures mercuric iodine soap. As with any manufacturing operation in Ireland, full compliance with all planning conditions and environmental standards is required. The manufacture of mercuric iodine soap is a mixing process involving no liquid or gaseous emissions. The substance used in the manufacturing-treatment process of this product is not prohibited for industrial use. My agencies are not aware of any breach of environmental or planning regulations by this company since it was established.
Responsibility for the control of medicinal products and cosmetic products rests with my colleague, the Minister for Health and Children. The World Health Organisation has expressed concern relating to the manufacture of soaps and cosmetics containing mercury in the EU and the marketing of these products in developing countries. The Minister for Health and Children is currently considering how best to address these concerns.
