Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

First, I thank the Deputies opposite for their contributions on Committee Stage. As I noted, the Government tried to facilitate their proposed amendments in every way possible. This Bill primarily is to ensure the implementation of the REACH directive. I also thank the departmental officials, who worked long and hard on this legislation. When it is enacted it should address many issues pertaining to how REACH regulations arising from EU directives will be enforced. Consequently, it should be of great benefit in ensuring one knows exactly what takes place in Ireland in respect of chemicals.

I urge the industry at large to buy into this and to start registration at an early stage. They should avoid getting into difficulties by not pre-registering before the end of the year. It is important that in whatever fora Members opposite, or anyone else, may have in which to speak on this issue, they should urge businesses that are involved in this industry to pre-register at an early stage to avoid subsequent difficulties. I again thank the departmental officials and Members opposite.

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