James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The recorded breaches relate to fine particles in the air. It has been stated by the professor that these comprise the most dangerous forms of air pollution because their microscopic size allows them to enter the bloodstream and get trapped in the lungs, resulting in respiratory and cardiac issues. We are also aware that these particles can be carcinogenic. They result in up to 1,500 deaths per year nationally. How many deaths are in the 20% of towns not covered by the State's smoky coal ban? The importers say that if the Government extends the ban to the final 20%, they will take legal action against the whole lot. Their motivation is money and nothing else. It is pure greed. It is a threat to the health of the State and people. The primary role of the Minister is to protect the people of the country, not bow to the kind of pressure in question.

A question must be asked about how serious the importers are. Why have they not taken legal action in the past 30 years? Surely if it were financially viable for them to threaten the State with action in the High Court, European Court of Justice or other court, they would do so. What the coal importers are threatening is despicable. I am not referring to all of them but to one or two. For the State to bow in the face of the threats is unacceptable and outrageous. The Minister is treating 20% of the population as second-class citizens in terms of their health. It is a most serious issue.

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