Vol. 394 No. 8
45 Mr. Garland asked the Minister for Health if he will make a statement on the number of deaths which could be deemed to be smog related in November and December 1989; the corresponding figure for 1988; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Figures for deaths by cause are published by the CSO on a quarterly basis. Data in relation to mortality from respiratory conditions for the December quarter of 1986, 1987 and 1988 are given in the attached table. The corresponding figure for the December quarter of 1989 are currently being compiled for publication by the CSO. It is not possible to say what proportion, if any, of deaths from these conditions may be either directly or indirectly attributable to smog. I can assure the Deputy of my concern at the factors, including smog, which contribute to respiratory illness. I would draw the Deputy's attention to the recent statement by the Minister for the Environment on the measures he proposed to take to improve the quality of the environment.
Deaths Registered due to Respiratory Conditions.
|
Cause of Death |
December Quarter |
||
|
1986 |
1987 |
1988 |
|
|
Pneumonia |
377 |
355 |
386 |
|
Influenza |
4 |
3 |
1 |
|
Bronchitis, Emphysema and Asthma |
176 |
150 |
149 |
|
Total |
557 |
508 |
536 |
