Eoghan Murphy (Dublin Bay South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

What we are doing in respect of microbeads is significant. We are bringing forward a ban on microbeads and being more ambitious than our EU partners. Due to the changes we are making, our EU partners will be playing catch-up with us. To protect the environment, including our watercourses and marine environment, and as part of the wider programme of climate action, it is significant legislation. There was good debate on the matter in the House, with a consensus approach, which is why we have been able to conclude it so swiftly. I sought a derogation from the market laws with the Commission at an early stage in order that we could move quickly, which I am glad to say happened.

I am also glad for the support we received. The former Senator, Grace O'Sullivan, from the Green Party and Deputy Sherlock from the Labour Party had each drafted legislation on the issue but withdrew them in order that we could progress the legislation before us. I thank them very much for that and for making the issue a priority with me, because as a result I made it a priority with my Department, which is why, working together, we have been able to do what we have done. It is a positive outcome from the process they started.

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