Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 229: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when his attention was drawn to the health risks associated with asbestos; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13429/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I refer to the reply to Question No. 258 of 12 March 2008 which set out the position in regard to asbestos.

There is a general ban on the use of asbestos under Directive 76/769/EEC as amended, which was transposed in Ireland by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment through the European Communities (Dangerous Substances and Preparations) (Marketing and Use) Regulations 2003.

The prevention of exposure is the focus of occupational safety and health legislation concerning asbestos in the workplace. Specific worker protection Regulations regarding the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to asbestos fibres while at work have been in place since 1989. The most up-to-date Regulations are the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Exposure to Asbestos) Regulations 2006, which are enforced by the Health and Safety Authority. The Authority comes under the remit of the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

Insofar as the management of asbestos as a waste is concerned, the Waste Management Acts 1996-2007 prohibit any person from holding, transporting, recovering or disposing of waste in a manner which causes or is likely to cause environmental pollution, defined in Section 5 to include action which would to a significant extent endanger human health.