Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

565. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will outline his engagement with the Minister for Education concerning action 4c: Reduction of risk in Sensitive Areas in the Irish National Action Plan for the Sustainable Use of Pesticides (Plant Protection Products); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25806/23]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Plant Protection Products (PPP’s) are authorised in Ireland based on scientific evaluations and decision-making criteria specified in EU Regulation No. 1107/2009, concerning the placing of PPP’s on the market) where safe uses can be demonstrated without posing any unacceptable risk to humans, animals, or the environment.

In addition, a National Action Plan (NAP) was put in place as part of the implementation of the Sustainable Use of Pesticides Directive (SUD - Directive 2009/128/EC). The current situation regarding use of PPP’s in the areas referred to in the NAP, including public parks, hospitals, public schools and public playgrounds. is that use is not permitted unless (i) a risk assessment has shown that their use is necessary and (ii) appropriate risk management measures have been put in place.

It is the PPP user’s responsibility to comply with these requirements. My Department also provides information and guidance for all relevant stakeholders on its website.

Negotiations are on-going at EU level on a proposal for a new Sustainable Use Regulation (SUR) to replace the current SUD, including the use of pesticides in sensitive areas. My Department held a public consultation on the proposed regulation, details of which are on its website. The Irish NAP will be replaced when this Regulation comes into force and my Department will liaise with all relevant stakeholders and other Government Departments as appropriate.