asked the Minister for the Environment the companies in Ireland which are currently utilising toxic and hazardous waste incinerators; the location of such companies; the safeguards at present in place concerning the safe operation of these incinerators; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Waste Incinerators.
128.
All aspects of the disposal of toxic and dangerous waste are subject to control under the European Communities (Toxic and Dangerous Waste) Regulations, 1982. The exercise of control functions under these regulations is a matter for the local authority in whose area the waste is located and any person disposing of such waste, whether by incineration or otherwise, needs a permit from the local authority. The local authority can specify the technical requirements to be observed and the precautions to be taken.
Licences are required under the Air Pollution Act, 1987 (Part III) and Regulations made pursuant thereto in relation, inter alia, to existing plant for the incineration of solid or liquid chemical wastes. The granting of a licence in any case is a matter for the local authority concerned. Local authorities, in granting a licence, have to have regard to statutory requirements including, inter alia, being satisfied that best practicable means will be used to prevent or limit any emissions from the plant and may attach appropriate conditions to a licence.