Léim ar aghaidh chuig an bpríomhábhar
Gnáthamharc

Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 21 Nov 2001

Vol. 544 No. 4

Written Answers. - Dumping at Sea.

Trevor Sargent

Ceist:

128 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that trawlers can use a barrel of lubricating oil per month without recycling but instead draining it into bilges and from there to the sea; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that filters likewise are often discarded into the sea after oil changes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29199/01]

The requirements regarding the control of the discharge of oil from ships are set out in the Sea Pollution (Prevention of Oil Pollution) Regulations, 1994. Oil, which cannot be discharged in accordance with the provisions of these regulations, has to be landed ashore for proper disposal, which can include eventually sending it to recycling facilities. The actions described by the Deputy are not permitted and are not to my Department's knowledge taking place, and I am advised that they would result in oil slicks which would be readily evident.

Barr
Roinn