John Carty (Fianna Fail)

I, too, welcome the Minister of State to the House and compliment him on this comprehensive Bill. The main policy objectives of the Bill are to achieve a high level of compliance while keeping to a minimum the costs to the chemicals industry. The Bill provides a clear regulatory framework for business and allows for increased co-operation between the various national authorities involved in enforcement.

The Bill is complex as it derives from EU regulations. I ask that those in key areas of chemical use are issued with a guide to the regulations and their rights. A considerable period of time was spent formulating the regulations in Europe. In this context, I compliment the work of Irish MEPs, which deserves acknowledgment.

It is important that when the Bill is enacted people are made aware of the regulations. The farming community should be well informed, given the amount of chemicals used on farms. If applied correctly, according to the instructions, chemicals can play an important role in the production of food in a safe way.

I welcome the enforcement provisions contained in sections 11 and 12, including the right of the authority to appoint persons it considers would make suitable inspectors for the purpose of enforcement. I also welcome the very clear outline, set out in section 12, of how such inspectors can operate. The level of detail is welcome and there should be no doubt in anyone's mind concerning the powers of inspectors.

I welcome the Bill and compliment the Minister of State for bringing it before the House.