Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 23 Feb 1993

Vol. 426 No. 5

Written Answers. - Air Quality Standards.

Peter Barry

Ceist:

13 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for the Environment if he intends to introduce statutory smog control regulations for Cork city in view of the serious deterioration of air quality in December, 1992, when the corporation came within 24 hours of enforcing an area control order when pollution readings escalated; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Mary Harney

Ceist:

42 Miss Harney asked the Minister for the Environment whether measures initiated to eliminate smog in urban areas are being implemented successfully; and if he intends to extend the Dublin smog regulations to other major urban areas.

Trevor Sargent

Ceist:

189 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment the plans, if any, which exist to create a smoke free zone in Cork city in view of the recent statement by the Minister of State with responsibility for environmental protection at a conference in Cork; and the measures which will bring this about.

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment (Mr. Browne,

Wexford): I propose to take Questions Nos. 13, 42 and 189 together.

National and EC air quality standards have been observed in all major urban areas, with the exception of parts of Dublin. No breaches of these standards have been recorded in Dublin since the introduction of the coal ban in September 1990.

The situation in other urban areas continues to be monitored, and my Department carries out an annual assessment of results with a view to any further remedial action. I have already indicated that in view of relatively high levels of smoke pollution already recorded in Cork city this winter, I will be paying particular attention to Cork in the context of the next review. The Programme for a Partnership Government provides that Dublin smog regulations will be extended to other major urban centres where necessary.