Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 311: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 1331 of 30 January 2008, if a full health risk evaluation on CFLs will be carried out prior to the introduction of proposals; the level of mercury contained in CFLs; and if, in view of an increase in the number of CFLs being introduced into households here, he will address concerns that this will potentially increase the exposure to toxic mercury. [9562/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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As stated in the reply to Question No. 1331 of 30 January 2008, in the context of any proposed measure relating to energy efficiency standards for lighting, I propose to consult with potentially affected stakeholders prior to the introduction of the measure.

My intention is to propose an energy efficiency standard for lighting that does not prescribe the type of lamp technology that must be used as a replacement. In this regard, my proposed approach will take cognisance of the availability of alternative lamp technologies currently in the market and seek to recognise the need for continued market choice and ongoing innovation in lighting products.

In relation to mercury contained in CFLs, the Waste Management (Restriction of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Regulations 2005, which transpose Directive 2002/95/EC, prohibit the placing on the Community Market of CFLs containing more than 5mg of mercury.

The disposal of CFLs is currently governed by the WEEE Directive. Retailers are required by law to take back waste CFLs and fluorescent lamps free of charge on a one-for-one, like-for-like basis from householders. Where replacement fluorescent tubes and CFLs are bought over the counter, retailers must take back the old product in-store, either at the time of sale or within a maximum of 15 days of the date of sale. Each local authority must also accept household waste CFLs and fluorescent tubes free of charge at its civic amenity facilities. Retailers can have their premises designated as 'WEEE collection points' or deposit household WEEE free of charge at local authority civic amenity facilities. There are currently in excess of 600 'WEEE collection points' including both retail outlets and civic amenity facilities.

As previously indicated, I have asked the EPA to draw up guidelines on the safe disposal of these products.