asked the Minister for Health if he has seen a statement from eminent medical personnel to the effect that Dublin Bay will pose a health hazard if certain steps are not taken, and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Bay Health Hazard.
28.
I have seen reports of the statement in question and also reports of the statement made by the Dublin deputy chief medical officer in regard to the health risk for swimmers arising from the discharge of sewage into Dublin Bay.
I am aware that in order to keep the health position under review and so that appropriate action may be taken, where necessary, the Dublin chief medical officer has arranged for routine testing of water at recognised bathing places around Dublin. I have asked to be furnished with periodic reports on the situation.
As regards the question of discharging sewage into Dublin Bay this is a matter which comes within the functions of the Minister for Local Government.
In view of the statements made by a number of doctors would the Minister not consider the situation serious enough to warrant consultation with his colleague, the Minister for Local Government, with a view to having something effective done about it?
I am concerned only with the question of health. As the Deputy knows, the sea water along the beaches is analysed at regular intervals and so far, with the exception, I think, of one very small area, there has been no question of pollution in general being excessive from the health point of view. It is a matter for the Minister for Local Government to deal with any other aspects of the matter but I can assure the Deputy I am keeping the question under review and I will ask the Dublin chief medical officer to provide me with another report which will relate to whether there is any noticeable increase in pollution from the health point of view so that we will be prepared for whatever action may be required from a health point of view if there is an increase over the period.
Would the Minister indicate the one area where he mentions that pollution was excessive?
I am afraid I have not got the exact area.
Would the Minister state how extensive is the testing in question in view of the importance of ensuring not only that pollution on average is low but that in no area is it a hazard to health?
The Deputy had better ask another question about this and I will reply to it. I have not got this information.
Question No. 29.
If the Minister is satisfied that there is a deteriorarolle tion in regard to pollution in Dublin Bay, could he indicate to the House what action he proposes to take?
I would have to refer that to the Dublin Health Authority and Dublin Corporation and the Minister for Local Government.
I swam there yesterday. There is no pollution.
(Interruptions.)