Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

The amendment proposes to insert a new provision regarding the sealing and labelling requirements of fuel bags under the fuel regulations. The Air Pollution Act 1987 (Marketing, Sale and Distribution of Fuels) (Amendment) Regulations 2011 require that a person or body shall not place on the market, sell or distribute bituminous coal in a bag unless it is sealed. Bituminous coal is defined in the regulations as coal "falling within CN Code 2701 12 placed on the market for residential heating" and does not require further clarification. Accepting this amendment could create confusion where there is none. The sealing and labelling provisions relate to bituminous coal, not to timber or peat. However, I will seek clarification for the Deputy in that regard.

The smoky coal ban was introduced in Dublin in 1990 and has since been extended to other cities and large towns. It has proved effective in improving air quality in urban areas and I intend to undertake a public consultation process on the ban during the coming months to ensure its continued effectiveness. Issues such as bagging and labelling requirements will be explored as part of that consultation. If there is any doubt about the Deputy's suggestion, I will use the consultation process as an opportunity to ensure the sentiment of what he is seeking to do is expressed in the regulations. Therefore, I cannot accept the amendment.

See this speech in context