asked the Minister for the Environment the measures, if any, he is taking to combat the pollution caused by diesel exhaust emissions from heavy vehicles and, in particular, from CIE buses.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers - Diesel Pollution.
10.
(Dublin South-East): Regulations made under the Road Traffic Act, 1961, require that vehicles must be so constructed, maintained and used so as to prevent to such extent as is reasonably possible the emission of excessive smoke, visible vapour, fumes, noxious gases and offensive odours. Enforcement of these regulations is a matter for the Garda Síochána. I might add that emissions from diesel engines are considered to have a lower toxic content than those from petrol engines.
The vehicle testing scheme for the annual testing of certain categories of commercial vehicles, including CIE buses, which will be effective as from 1 January 1983 includes a check on smoke emissions from diesel engines.
Do I take it that the Minister is telling the House that he is satisfied with the present arrangements and that no further improvements can be expected and that he has no plans to take any further action?
(Dublin South-East): No. The Deputy could not take that from my reply — far from it. I am far from happy with the present situation and very conscious of the appalling position that arises regarding old buses in our fleet. It is very undesirable particularly when the summer is coming in. I can give the House an assurance that I shall bring the matter immediately to the attention of CIE to see what can be done to improve that situation. I agree in full with the sentiments expressed by the Deputy and I shall do everything I can to alleviate the problem. Under the forthcoming regulations on 1 January I believe we will have an improvement.
In the interim has the Minister any plans to improve enforcement procedure?
(Dublin South-East): As I said, it is a matter for the Garda. I give the House an assurance on two fronts: I will make the strongest case I can to the Garda Síochána to see what can be done to improve the situation, and also to CIE.