Written answers

Tuesday, 29 November 2011

Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation

Consumer Protection

9:00 pm

Photo of Caoimhghín Ó CaoláinCaoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 225: To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the publication date of the results of the consultation process undertaken by the national committee on internal window blind safety; the steps that will be taken on its publication to address the threat to child safety in the home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37613/11]

Photo of Richard BrutonRichard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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The National Committee on Internal Window Blind Safety was established by the National Standards Authority of Ireland and is comprised of representatives of the manufacturing and installation sectors as well as the National Consumer Agency. The Committee has met to consider comments and suggestions which were received as a result of the public consultation on the proposed new Irish Standard.

Subject to final considerations, it is expected that the new standard will be ready for publication during Q1 2012 at which stage it is intended that public awareness of window blind safety will be raised again.

While standards alone cannot save lives, they provide requirements and information to manufacturers and suppliers on safety requirements of blind cords and chains and provide guidance for parents and householders on the retrofitting of safety devices in their homes. Such actions taken together can contribute to increased safety. The buy-in of manufacturers and suppliers is important and the fact that a number were represented on the National Committee is expected to contribute towards this objective.

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