asked the Minister for Labour if he is satisfied that the present means of transporting the highly dangerous chemical acrylonitrile across the country is the safest method of transport; and if so, his reasons.
Written Answers. - Transport of Dangerous Substance.
91.
I am satisfied that the present means of transporting acrylonitrile to the Asahi Plant, Killala, County Mayo is the safest method of transporting it. I am informed that the question of transport by sea was fully considered and was rejected due to the unsuitability of local ports to receive vessels of the size required and the hazards in regard to this type of transport arising from storms on the west coast in the winter.
Recommendations on the safety measures and operational procedures to govern the transportation of this chemical by rail from Dublin to Ballina were adopted following in-depth studies and consultations with representatives of the Asahi Company, the Department of Transport, C.I.E., Mayo County Council, Dublin Port and Docks Board, the IIRS and an inter-departmental safety committee. The Deputy will be aware from a recent reply which he received from the Minister for Communications that CIE operates safety arrangements in regard to rail transport which conform to the international arrangements for the carriage of dangerous goods by rail. The chemical is transported by road by CIE from Ballina to Killala and such transport is covered by the Dangerous Substances (Conveyance of Scheduled Substances by Road) (Trade or Business) Regulations, 1980.
The industrial inspectorate of my Department carry out regular road checks to ensure that this legislation is complied with. The Regulations provide for measures to be taken and standards, to be observed in the conveyance by road of certain dangerous substances including acrylonitrile. The labelling of tanks, containers and packages, display by vehicles of appropriate warning signs, training of personnel and the action to be taken in the event of an accident involving this chemical must meet the requirements of this legislation.