Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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31. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views that carbon monoxide alarms should be installed in all public places such as hotels as a matter of public safety; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10236/15]

Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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The regulation of installation of carbon monoxide alarms is a matter for the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government. I understand that with effect from 1 September 2014 it is compulsory, under revised Building Regulations made by the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, to install approved carbon monoxide alarms in new domestic dwellings. I further understand that the scope of these Regulations does not extend to premises such as hotels.Safety must always be the highest priority. As the Minister for Energy, I fully support Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week which is now an annual event. The Awareness Week campaign operates in addition to regular safety messages from the gas industry, in particular from Gas Networks Ireland, throughout the year and such campaigns have been shown to heighten public awareness of carbon monoxide risks.

The key messages of Carbon Monoxide Awareness week are:

- Carbon Monoxide can be produced when any fuel is burned, including oil, gas, wood and coal;

- To prevent Carbon Monoxide, have appliances serviced annually and keep vents, flues and chimneys

clean;

- Carbon Monoxide is odourless and colourless so for added protection install an audible Carbon

Monoxide alarm.