Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 November 2022
8. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his attention has been drawn to the widespread concern of businesses trading in household energy products due to smoky coal products being imported illegally into the State; the resources that he is providing to local authorities to counteract such illegal trade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55886/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe new solid fuel regulations, which took effect from 31 October, place technical standards and restrictions on all solid fuels. It is now illegal to place fuels on the market in Ireland that do not meet the requirements of the regulations, irrespective of where the fuel has been sourced. The introduction of these regulations will improve the quality of the air that we breathe, and the health of the public that we serve by ensuring that the most polluting fuels are no longer available for sale on the Irish market.
Local Authorities are responsible for the enforcement of the solid fuel regulations, identifying unauthorised fuels placed on the market and taking measures to counteract any illegal trade. They are also responsible for the allocation of appropriate resources to ensure that they can fulfil their air quality enforcement obligations. Officials from my Department and the Local Government Management Agency have been working together to establish an appropriate and cost-effective enforcement support structure to be put in place next year. This structure will support the provision of enhanced co-ordination, expertise, and advice to support consistent implementation of air quality legislation across the country. In advance of this, my Department has made grant funding available to support Local Authorities through a pilot solid fuels enforcement scheme this year, and we continue to work with the sector in providing guidance and training, and the sharing of best practice.
