asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the hardship suffered by many residents of smoke control zone A in Ballyfermot, Dublin 10, who, in advance of the confirmation of the Smoke Control Order took the initiative to install heating systems which met the criteria of the order and who as a result of this initiative have forfeited the right to grants to which they would, had they waited, otherwise have been entitled; and, in the circumstance, whether the residents concerned should be entitled to the grant or at least a significant proportion thereof; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Smoke Control Zones.
242.
I am aware that prior to the confirmation of Dublin Corporation's Special Control Area (Ballyfermot) Order, in November 1988, a number of residents in the area concerned installed new heating systems. As explained in reply to parliamentary questions on 4 May 1988 (Nos. 49, 80 and 81) a grants scheme under section 45 of the Air Pollution Act, 1989, could only operate where a special control area order was confirmed following the completion of statutory procedures. There is no legal authority for the payment of grants for heating conversions which took place before the relevant special control area order was confirmed.