asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will make a statement on the progress of the European study on fluoride and phosphate mineral resources in so far as they may create environmental problems.
289.
Written Answers. - Industrial Activity Pollution.
288.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce when it is expected that the European Commission, in accordance with the environmental programme, will present the result of their studies on pollution attributable to certain industrial activity, such as the iron and steel, petro-chemical and non-ferrous metal industries.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 288 and 289 together.
In accordance with the EEC Environment Programme the European Commission is pursuing studies on the pollution arising from certain industrial activities such as the iron and steel industry, petrochemicals and non-ferrous metals and in connection with fluoride and phosphate mineral resources. These studies cover world resources, geochemistry, environmental pollution, production, consumption and future needs on both world and Community levels. A very thorough study on mercury has ended.
Owing to the extent and complexity of the various problems involved, technical, economic and social, the Commission will not be in a position to present the results of other studies before 1976.