Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 October 2022
469. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the changes that are proposed in relation to the use of creosote and specifically its use on timber products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50821/22]
View answerThe active substance creosote has undergone a review at EU level in the context of renewing or not an approval for use in biocidal wood preservative products.
The outcome of these discussions culminated in a decision by the Standing Committee on Biocidal Products to renew creosote for vacuum pressure impregnation of wood used for railway sleepers and telecommunication poles only. The renewal regulation is expected to be published in the coming weeks.
Following publication, authorisations of creosote containing products in Ireland will be amended to prohibit the sale and use of products containing creosote to treat agricultural/equine fencing. A period of grace will be applied for the sell out and use of existing stock of creosote, where applicable. From 30 April 2023, any placing on the market and sale of timber treated with Creosote except for railway sleepers and telecommunication poles will be prohibited.
The Department has engaged with industry stakeholders throughout this review and will continue these engagements over the period ahead to ensure that all stakeholders are fully aware of this regulatory change.
