Limerick West): I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 and 21 together.
I was represented by a number of my officials at the Irish Sea Conference, which was held in the Isle of Man from 22 to 24 October 1990. I have given detailed consideration to the conclusions arising from the conference.
In relation to monitoring and research in the Irish Sea, existing co-operative arrangements between Ireland and the UK have been taken a stage further by the establishment of an Irish Sea Co-ordination Group. The group will have the assistance of a scientific co-ordinator and its reporting procedure will be decided in conjunction with the UK and Irish authorities. The aims of the group will be to promote the review of existing and proposed scientific programmes which will include accidental and operational discharges from ships.
Ireland and the UK have also agreed to work together to establish formal arrangements for co-operation and co-ordination in dealing with pollution incidents in the Irish Sea.
Arrangements in respect of both of the above matters are in train.