Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 30 Jan 2002

Vol. 547 No. 1

Written Answers. - EU Directives.

John Bruton

Ceist:

519 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason he has failed to implement EU regulations regarding the quality of bottled water for human consumption, due to have been introduced here no later than December 2000; the reason for the delay; and if proceedings have been taken against Ireland due to his failure in this regard. [1378/02]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

As the Deputy will appreciate, the number of directives emanating from the EU has greatly increased in recent years. The drafting of regulations within given timeframes is dependent on expert drafting expertise which is not always readily available.

There are a number of EU directives which give effect to the quality of bottled waters for human consumption. It has been necessary to consolidate these directives to produce regulations encompassing the provisions outlined in each directive.

I am pleased to inform you that the drafting of these particular regulations is at an advanced stage and it is envisaged that transposition will be completed by the end of March 2002. The Commission has taken no proceedings against Ireland in this regard.