I propose to take Questions Nos. 78 and 125 together.
The Health Research Board report was commissioned as a literature review which is a recognised research tool. This is particularly so where original research is precluded, as in this case by the absence in Ireland of facilities for the thermal treatment of municipal waste.
My response to the report was put on hold to allow regard to be had to other and more recent research findings in detailed consultation with the Department of Health and Children and the Environmental Protection Agency. Specifically, close regard was had to a UK Government report on a review of environmental and health effects of waste Management, 2004, which extended the analysis to the impact of facilities based on the latest thermal treatment and landfill technologies, and to a discussion paper prepared by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland. Taken together, I am advised that the reports show that modern, properly regulated waste disposal facilities do not present a threat to human health or the environment.