Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 Dec 2001

Vol. 545 No. 4

Written Answers. - Building Regulations.

John Gormley

Question:

301 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he has received a submission regarding building regulations revision of Part L from a company (details supplied) in County Limerick; his views on whether insulation products which use HCFC gases should not be permitted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30794/01]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Dempsey)

I have received the submission concerned on the proposed revision of Part L of the building regulations. The consultation period on these draft regulations ended on 30 November 2001. I can assure the Deputy that all submissions received during it will be carefully considered by my Department, in consultation with the Building Regulations Advisory Body, before the final regulations are made and the definitive technical guidance document published.

Independently of the provisions of the building regulations, use of HCFC gases for the production of insulation products used in the construction industry is being phased out under Regulation 2037/2000 of the European Parliament and of the Council on substances that deplete the ozone layer, with full phase out to be achieved by 1 January 2004.