Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

To be fair, Deputy Collins raised this issue during priority questions some time ago. The remit of the HSA is to deal with the workplace. Theme parks, merry-go-rounds and funfairs do not come under the remit of the HSA as the Deputy rightly pointed out, but we are considering changes to the legislation to see if these theme parks can come under that area. I know the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government, Deputy Coveney is considering that at present. I will certainly get an update on the position for Deputy Collins as soon as the Minister, Deputy Coveney, has completed his deliberations. The HSA is very focused on the workplace. There are no proposals at present to change that because I think the HSA has a very broad remit, particularly with the increased numbers working in the construction sector. Local authorities also have a role in regard to theme parks and merry-go-rounds. We will be looking at this area, especially in light of the two unfortunate deaths that took place in recent times. At present the HSA can only consider issues in respect of people who are employed. The Minister, Deputy Coveney, is looking at the issue of theme parks and merry-go-rounds and I will discuss this with him. Should Deputy Collins table an oral question on this issue, I will be delighted to get an update and respond to his question on proposed changes in legislation.