asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the steps he has taken to ensure that all Irish manufacturing companies will be in a position to comply with European specifications if they are to market in the Community with particular reference to metal, glass and plastic aerosol dispensers.
Written Answers. - EEC Manufacturing Specifications.
283.
I take it that by specifications the Deputy has in mind the standards specified in EEC directives.
Irish manufacturers are consulted and kept informed throughout the process of the drawing up of European specifications of relevance to them in order to ensure that they are aware of the implications for them. Their interests are taken into account in the formation of Ireland's attitude to each specification. Should manufacturers need to adapt their plant equipment to meet the specifications the normal range of re-equipment grants is available to them from the Industrial Development Authority. Technical advice can be had from the Institute for Industrial Research and Standards.
The EEC directive in regard to aerosol dispensers was adopted by the Council of Ministers on 20th May, 1975. Irish manufacturers, through the relevant trade association, were consulted during the examination of the draft directive. Member states have 18 months from the date of notification of the directive—21st May, 1975—to bring into force the provisions necessary to ensure compliance with the directive.