Andrew Boylan
Ceist:64 Mr. Boylan asked the Minister for the Environment the restrictions, if any, there are on the use of Hydrochlorofluorocarbons in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Vol. 444 No. 1
64 Mr. Boylan asked the Minister for the Environment the restrictions, if any, there are on the use of Hydrochlorofluorocarbons in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
, (Wexford): At present, the manufacture and use of HCFCs (Hydrochlorofluorocarbons) is not restricted under the EU regulations controlling ozone depleting substances. However, the Council of Environment Ministers, at its meeting on 8/9 June, agreed a common position on a draft regulation under which the marketing and import of HCFCs will be phased out between now and the year 2014. In the meantime, the use of HCFCs will be restricted to certain uses for which alternative substances are not readily available. The regulation, when adopted, will have direct effect in Ireland.