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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 5 Feb 2002

Vol. 547 No. 3

Written Answers. - Health and Safety Regulations.

John Browne

Ceist:

85 Mr. Browne (Carlow-Kilkenny) asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the input by the Government at European level to the development of a new asbestos worker protection directive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3366/02]

The potential dangers posed to persons from exposure to asbestos fibres is well recognised and it is essential that workers are protected against the risk of such a situation arising at their place of work. Existing European Union-derived regulations currently govern the protection of workers exposed to asbestos.

Ireland is currently involved at European level in the development of a new asbestos directive. The proposed directive will provide for more specific and enhanced requirements to ensure the protection of high-risk workers against asbestos fibres exposure. In addition, the proposed directive will further reduce the existing exposure limits so as to enhance the protection of all workers.

In my capacity as the Government's representative at the Council of Ministers for the Employ ment and Social Policy Council, last autumn I strongly supported the Belgian Presidency presentation on the proposal for the new directive and I confirmed the need to develop and modernise the existing legislation in the light of changes within the asbestos industry in Ireland and at European level in general. The Government strongly supports and welcomes the proposed new directive which will further assist in the protection of all, particularly those most at risk from exposure to asbestos fibres while performing their work activities.
The Health and Safety Authority is the State agency, under the auspices of my Department, responsible for the health and safety of workers. The authority is currently participating in the ongoing working group meetings at European level on the proposed directive on asbestos.
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