Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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274. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on findings of recent studies on the air quality impact of burning coal; his further views on the viability of cheaper, more efficient and less harmful alternative fuels; his plans for this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2485/17]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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Since its introduction in Dublin in 1990, and subsequent extension to 26 urban areas nationwide, the ban on the marketing, sale and distribution of bituminous fuel (or ‘smoky coal ban’ as it is commonly known) has proved very effective in reducing air pollution and significantly improving public health. Scientific understanding has evolved in the intervening years, however, and numerous studies now indicate that air pollution, at lower levels than was previously understood, has impacts on human health.  Consequently, it is necessary to continue to strengthen policy to enhance air quality for the protection of people’s health and the environment.

In this regard, I am committed to extending the smoky coal ban nationwide. This process necessarily involves discussion and consultation with a wide number of stakeholders, including with the European Commission, relevant Departments and agencies, the residential fuel industry, and the general public.  Preliminary discussions on issues that may arise in connection with the proposed nationwide ban have already taken place with some of these stakeholders.

My Department is currently developing the first ever national Clean Air Strategy which will provide the strategic framework for a set of cross-Government policies and actions to reduce harmful emissions and improve our air quality. The strategy will also impact a wide range of other national policies that are relevant to air quality, such as transport, energy and agriculture. The issue of promoting alternative fuels is a key feature of the strategy and a consultation process on the strategy will commence shortly. I would expect that the strategy will be published by the end of 2017 and will, inter alia, indicate a timeline for the nationwide extension of the ban on smoky coal.