asked the Minister for Local Government when he intends to introduce legislation to deal with the growing menace of pollution.
192.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - Pollution Problem.
191.
asked the Minister for Local Government the present position regarding the consideration of the pollution problem by the interdepartmental committee working group on air and water pollution.
I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 191 and 192 together.
I have recently received from the working group a report dealing with the water pollution problem, including the legislative aspect. The question of having the report published is at present being considered in consultation with the other Departments concerned. When the group's recommendations have been examined I intend to bring forward such proposals for new legislation as may be necessary to deal with the situation.
The working group, at my request, gave priority to the water pollution problem and has not yet reported on air pollution, but the legislative position in relation to the control of air pollution is comparatively satisfactory and there is no urgent need to change it fundamentally.
With regard to pollution of the coast by oil, I would refer to the statement I made on the matter during the course of my Estimates speech on the 20th June last, col. 1863, Vol. 261, No. 11 of the Official Report. The urgent problem here is an organisational one and my Department are pressing on with consideration of the organisational arrangements needed.