Vol. 545 No. 3
128 Mr. Farrelly asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government his plans to introduce legislation regarding smokeless fuel throughout the country; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that up to 1,500 jobs in the coal industry may be lost; his plans to grant aid the conversion for householders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30231/01]
135 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if, further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 216 of 21 November 2001 and his reference to the availability of information in the Dáil library, he or his Ministers of State have given instructions or directions regarding the future use of bituminous coals which might result in loss of livelihood to those involved in the fuel industry; if discussions were entered into with those whose jobs might be affected; the extent to which provision has been made in the event of loss of livelihood; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30396/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 128 and 135 together.
I refer to the replies to Questions No. 360 of 13 November 2001, Nos. 187 to 189, inclusive, of 14 November 2001, No. 216 of 21 November 2001 and No. 260 of 27 November 2001.
I have met the Solid Fuel Industry Association, which I understand represents the views of a large majority of solid fuel traders, regularly since coming into office and my officials have met representatives of the association twice since the commencement of the consultation process on a potential national ban on bituminous coal and petroleum coke. Following clarification from my Department on various points of detail in the public consultation paper a formal submission is now awaited from the Solid Fuel Industry Association.
