James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 5: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has taken into consideration the concerns of people who might have medical problems if exposed solely to the new generation of energy efficient bulbs; if he has addressed concerns regarding the disposal of CFL light bulbs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43225/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The traditional incandescent light bulb is extremely wasteful of both energy and money. Modern compact fluorescent lamps, CFLs, use 20% of the energy and last up to ten times longer. This means the consumer saves significantly, over the long run, on both energy bills and replacement costs, while the reduced electricity usage translates into lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Ireland is one of the first countries to bring forward an energy efficiency standard for light bulbs. Similar proposals are being developed elsewhere and the European Commission has announced plans for an EU-wide initiative over the coming years. There is a widespread acceptance of the need to address the issue of energy efficient lighting, given that electricity generation is one of the main sources of greenhouse gas emissions. Ireland's energy efficiency standard will contribute to our compliance with the Kyoto Protocol and the more ambitious targets that lie beyond the protocol.

While CFLs offer the greatest savings in both energy use and cost, they are not the only option that will meet the proposed standard. In recent years, a further alternative has emerged, with the development of halogen incandescent bulbs. While these are not as efficient as CFLs, they are more efficient than the traditional incandescent and can also substitute directly for the traditional bulb in some fittings that are not suited to CFLs. They do not appear to give rise to any medical issues, and would therefore provide an alternative for anyone who finds CFLs to be unsuitable.

My Department's recent public consultation document on the proposed standard provided an opportunity for interested parties to identify issues of concern, and the responses will be taken into account in implementing the standard. The paper referred to the fact that some people have expressed concerns about CFLs on medical grounds, but noted also that halogen bulbs would seem to provide a solution in such cases.

In so far as disposal is concerned, all CFLs are covered by the WEEE directive and will therefore be accepted without charge by civic amenity sites or by any outlet that sells them.

James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

What plans has the Minister to address the concerns among the public that the banning of traditional light bulbs could have a detrimental effect on health? What medical advice has he sought or received on this matter? CFLs contain mercury and particular care must be taken not to break them. We banned mercury thermometers and barometers some years ago. Now, the Minister is re-introducing mercury bulbs. Is the Minister aware that some energy saving light bulbs emit ultra violet radiation and could be harmful if placed too close to the skin? Is the Minister prepared to allow some degree of flexibility for those suffering from migraine, epilepsy and skin conditions? Will such people be given the option of purchasing the traditional light bulbs from assigned sources or perhaps on prescription? These issues need to be addressed.

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

We have examined all those issues. This is why we are giving a certain amount of flexibility so that people can avail of the halogen bulbs, which do not have the same effect. The Deputy talked about re-introducing mercury but it has been with us for quite some time. The fluorescent tube that we are familiar with for over 50 years contains mercury. Deputy Bannon referred to ultra violet exposure and medical advice. A 1993 report from Australia found that ultraviolet exposure from sitting under typical office fluorescent lights for eight continuous hours is the equivalent of just over one minute of sun exposure. These are the facts and we have had far too much hysteria. Anytime one tries to do something of value, there is opposition. This is a well thought-out proposal. We have examined the difficulties cited and have addressed them in a sensible way.

James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I am sure the Minister is aware that mercury poses a strong health hazard. We replaced mercury thermometers on health grounds. Are we not placing young children in danger of greater mercury exposer from these bulbs? The instructions for coping with broken CFL bulbs amount to dealing with a major incident. I question whether they are an environmental bonus or a retrograde step and another hazard for householders. What provisions are made for low income families to enable the changeover to energy efficient bulbs? These will place a major financial burden on many people.

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Rather than calming the situation, Deputy Bannon is trying to hype it up.

James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I hype nothing.

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The claims he is making are spurious. This morning he tried to make out that Fine Gael was an environmental party of some description. Given Deputy Bannon's performance, he would bring us back to the Dark Ages when it comes to environmental progress. He has no ideas at all, only a litany of negativity. Deputy Bannon should come forward with valuable solutions and should stop knocking all the time.

James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Minister poses health hazards to the general public every time we get up since he took over the portfolio.

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I will talk to my colleague the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources about providing for those who are in, as Deputy Bannon says, in lower socio-economic groups.