Air Quality

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 January 2017

Tuesday, 24 January 2017

Questions (580)

Róisín Shortall

Question:

580. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will request a baseline air quality study to be carried out in Dublin city before the Poolbeg incinerator is fully operational in view of the fact the initial study was completed in 2005 and therefore may not be an accurate baseline measure for future air quality monitoring; if the operators of the incinerator will be required to use the initial baseline measurement when measuring emissions as set out in the EPA licence for the operation of the incinerator in the event that an up to date study is not completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3177/17]

Written answers

Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment

I understand that the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Dublin Waste to Energy plant, which included an air quality baseline survey, accompanied the Planning Application to An Bord Pleanala and the Waste Licence Application to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Under the relevant legislation, matters pertaining to planning do not fall under the remit of the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and the Environment.

Furthermore, conditions and enforcement of conditions attached to the Dublin Waste to Energy licence are a matter for the licensing authority, the Environmental Protection Agency. As Minister, I am precluded by legislation from exercising powers in relation to the performance in particular circumstances by the Agency of a function conferred on the Agency under legislation and I have no role in this regard.

Accordingly, questions regarding the Environmental Impact Statement for the Dublin Waste to Energy plant should be directed to the appropriate authority.