David Norris (Independent)

In this country we are rightly concerned about low levels of radon which is one of the by-products of depleted uranium. What is the Minister of State's response to Senator Boyle's Bill? The Green Party is in government and most Fianna Fáil Members supported the legislation. The Minister provided clear support and would be horrified by the statement that depleted uranium does not pose a significant radiological risk. This is mealy-mouthed stuff. There is a huge body of evidence and the IAEA is committed to the production of nuclear energy, of which depleted uranium is a by-product. Therefore, it is scarcely a non-conflicted party. I hope the Department will continue its discussions with the international coalition to have depleted uranium weapons banned because the facts are on their side. I am astonished that anyone, however low the position he or she occupies in the Department, could come out with this rubbish.

Those are my questions. I am sure the Minister of State who is a good friend of the House and a stalwart Laois man will communicate them to the Minister and seek a strong response.