Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 October 2004
150 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will work closely with the Departments of Transport and for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (details supplied). [25859/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy's question refers to the Dublin Port Tunnel, which is the ultimate responsibility of Dublin City Council. A project such as this requires broad co-operation from all participants.
My Department's responsibilities in regard to the project relate to the occupational safety, health and welfare of the workers there and the application of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 1989. The Act requires an employer to prepare a safety statement based on hazard identification and risk assessment. Under section 12, that statement must be in writing and be relevant to the work undertaken. Section 6(2)(g) of the Act requires the preparation and revision of adequate plans to be followed in emergencies.
Section 6 (2)(d) of the 1989 Act requires the provision of systems of work that are planned, organised, performed and maintained so as to be safe. Section 6(2)(e) of the Act also requires the provision of such information, instruction, training and supervision as necessary to ensure the safety and health at work of his employees. Those provisions must be carried out in so far as is reasonably practicable.
As required by section 16 of the Act, the Health and Safety Authority provides information and advice on matters relating to safety, health and welfare at work and work with others to achieve that. There is continuous interaction between the Health and Safety Authority and the participating parties in the port tunnel project. I am satisfied that the Health and Safety Authority is carrying out its duties in that regard.
