Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail)
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Question 97: To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the action he will take to address the issues raised in correspondence (details supplied); if he or his Department has made contact with the company which corresponded with him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14877/11]

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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EU Regulation 245/2009 of 18 March 2009 provided, inter alia, for the phasing out of incandescent light bulbs over a period between 1 September 2009 and 1 September 2012. The purpose of the Regulation is to phase out inefficient incandescent light bulbs throughout Europe on a staged basis and replace them with more energy-efficient alternatives such as new improved halogen light bulbs, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and LEDs. The aim of the Regulation is to save energy, limit CO2 emissions and help consumers save money in lower electricity bills without the loss of functionality.

I have received correspondence from a company concerning the presence, on the retail market, of incandescent light bulbs of 100W and higher, which in general were to be phased out from 1 September 2009. However, I should point out that stocks that were already on the shelves of retailers or in retailer stocks before 1 September 2009 can continue to be sold until they are depleted.

The Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources is the designated authority for the surveillance and enforcement of the EU Regulations on light bulbs and other energy-related products, and I have forwarded the correspondence which I have received to the Minister for his attention and any further action which may be appropriate. A reply to this effect will also issue from my Department to the correspondent.