Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)

While I can understand the logic of the questions raised by Deputy McManus — I know she is representing her constituency and wants to get answers for her constituents — I must respectfully suggest that many of them would be better addressed to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and South Dublin County Council. The Department of Defence involvement in this matter relates only to the provision of a site. However, I will try to answer those of which I have some knowledge.

As regards the Deputy's comment in respect of the removal of the waste from a safe to a remote location, South Dublin County Council has decided the original location of the cylinders was not safe and that an uncontrolled escape of the hydrogen gas from there could have lethal consequences. In this regard, it decided to exercise its powers under the Waste Management Act 1996 to ensure this material is taken to what it believes is a safe site and destroyed by an agreed and safe process.

As regards what any of my colleagues did or did not say about the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, I must confess I did not hear any comments in that regard. I have every confidence in the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

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