Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2019
2184. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the relevant bodies he plans to meet with in order to take immediate action to improve the air quality in Dublin city; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32029/19]
View answer2276. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if his attention has been drawn to the EPA report on nitrogen dioxide levels in Dublin; the actions he plans to take on foot of same; his views as to whether monitoring stations should be put in place in some back gardens of houses backing onto the M50 in view of the fact that the report identifies the M50 as one of the most polluted areas with the highest concentrations of nitrogen dioxide occurring within 10 m of the roadside; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33771/19]
View answer2297. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his views on creating low-emission zones in the areas of Dublin with the worst air quality; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34506/19]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 2184, 2276 and 2297 together.
A report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recently released, indicates that areas around certain heavily trafficked roads in the Dublin area, including the M50, may have higher levels of the pollutant nitrogen dioxide (NO2) than previously indicated.
The report underlines the need to implement the Climate Action Plan. The Plan includes a number of actions which will have a significant impact on reducing harmful emissions and improving air quality. My Department and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport have begun discussions on establishing a working group, bringing relevant organisation together to ensure early action is taken on this matter and to improve the air quality in Dublin. This process will include the two Departments, the four Dublin Local Authorities and the EPA. The questions of low emission zones and further monitoring will be examined in this context.
This work will complement the work already under way in developing an all-of-government Clean Air Strategy which will provide an overarching policy framework within which clean air policies can be formulated and given effect in a manner consistent with national priorities, EU and other international policy considerations. The Clean Air Strategy will address a range of harmful air pollutants in Ireland, including those arising from the agricultural, transport and residential heating sectors, in an integrated manner. I intend to publish the Strategy in the coming months.
