asked the Minister for Local Government if his attention has been drawn to a statement, which was published by the Electrical Safety Bureau, to the effect that at least 95 per cent of the homes wired in the past 10 years has at least one fire hazard because, contrary to the regulations of the Institution of Electrical Engineers, the fuse board used was mounted on a wooden backing; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fire Hazards.
77.
I have seen Press reports of this statement. In so far as the inspection or checking of electrical systems in new houses is concerned, I would refer the Deputy to my replies to Question No. 51 on 1st June, 1971, and to supplementary questions arising out of that question.
Is the Minister aware that fire damage in this country is more serious than in practically any other country in Europe?
I have not seen any statistics to this effect and cannot agree or disagree with the Deputy.