Written answers
Wednesday, 18 May 2005
Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government
Environmental Policy
9:00 pm
Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Question 164: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the progress of the report to the EU Commission detailing the way in which Ireland is dealing with ozone depleting substances; the reason for the failure to produce the report by the deadline of 31 December 2001; the steps taken to ensure the completion of the report following the Commission's warning that the Government could face financial penalties for ignoring the European court ruling on the issue of October 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16348/05]
Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Due to competing demands in the requirements of new EU environmental legislation, and the need to deploy available resources on a priority basis, it has not previously been possible to put in place the detailed arrangements which are necessary for the administration of EU Regulation 2037/2000 on substances that deplete the ozone layer. It is important to note that none of the substances controlled under the regulation are produced in this country.
Prior to the judgment of the European Court of Justice, steps had already been taken towards implementing the regulation. URS Ireland Limited were appointed as consultants at the end of 2003 by the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, on behalf of my Department to advise in this regard. Their final report has been received by the EPA and will be made available shortly. In the meantime, my Department is consulting with the EPA on appropriate administrative arrangements to fully implement the regulation and meet all reporting obligations.
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