asked the Minister for the Environment if, in view of the widespread public concern as to their harmful effects on the atmosphere, he will introduce legislation, similar to that already enacted in Sweden, to ban the use of aerosol sprays.

A draft proposal for a Council Recommendation on fluorocarbons in the environment is at present under consideration by the EEC. The need for any action relating to the use of aerosol sprays in Ireland will be considered when a conclusion is reached by the EEC on this recommendation.

Have the Department any attitude on this question? Have they the same fears as those held by the Swedes in regard to these sprays and, if so, are there any plans to implement legislation in this area?

We are awaiting the outcome of the EEC's findings. I am sure they will be well informed as to the dangers involved and if there are recommendations we shall go along with them.

Has the Minister any idea of how long this process may take within the EEC?

As the Deputy knows such a process can take a long time to complete.

But is it proposed to await their recommendation before adopting any attitude in regard to this important and fundamental area of public health?

The need for action will be considered when a conclusion is reached by the EEC on this recommendation. The Deputy should remember that we are members of the Community.

The Minister remembers that when it suits him to remember.

I am calling the next question.

The fact that the EEC are carrying out an investigation hardly deprives the Minister of the right to take an initiative.

That is so but surely since the matter is under active study in the Community we should await the findings.

The remaining Questions will appear on the Order Paper for the next sitting day.