Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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Question 940: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his Department's position in respect of voluntary protection programmes in the field of health and safety at work; and if he or his Department have made a commitment to recognise such programmes in workplaces here. [28510/06]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The Health and Safety Authority, which is the body responsible for enforcement of occupational safety and health legislation in Ireland, has conducted a pilot programme in relation to the Voluntary Protection Programme. This pilot programme, which commenced in 2004, arose out of a joint EU/US meeting that considered areas for practical co-operation between the EU and US.

The programme is designed to encourage and recognise excellence in management of safety and health. Organisations that agree to take part in the programme are required to undergo a rigorous external audit, overseen by the Health and Safety Authority, to assess the occupational safety, health and welfare management systems of the organisation. While organisations may volunteer to participate in the scheme, they remain subject to the full requirements of occupational safety, health and welfare legislation in this country and its associated enforcement requirements.

I understand that the Authority has undertaken a review of the pilot programme and is considering the future role for it. I have made no commitment to recognise such programmes in workplaces here.