Baldonnel toxic waste depot
The Minister said plans for a proposed toxic-waste facility and its disposal arrangements remained under review, with a decision expected shortly. He agreed the whole process must be considered together and said he would consider meeting Rathcoole community representatives.
andMr. De Rossa asked the Minister for the Environment if it is intended to proceed with the development of a storage depot for toxic waste at Baldonnel, County Dublin.
23.
Comment on this
andMr. De Rossa asked the Minister for the Environment the plans he has for the disposal of the toxic waste which it is intended to store at Baldonnel, County Dublin, and at other sites.
Comment on this
I propose to take Questions Nos. 22 and 23 together.
As I indicated in reply to a question on this subject on 2 February 1983, the arrangements generally relating to the development of the proposed central facility for certain wastes have been under review. I expect to be in a position to make a statement in the matter shortly.
Comment on this
I am sure the Minister is aware of the great public concern in regard to toxic wastes, which are increasing as a result of the development of chemical industries. He states that he has the matter under review and expects to be able to make a decision shortly. In view of the fact that this matter has been under review by two previous Governments and that no decision has been made, does he regard the matter as one of grave urgency?
Comment on this
I share Deputy Mac Giolla's assessment of the public concern in relation to this matter but he will realise that we have had no previous experience of the matter in this country. We are endeavouring to get the right solution from the start. We will not hesitate in coming to a conclusion but neither will we move too fast.
Comment on this
I would agree with the Minister that we must get the right solution. I take it the Minister would not have a collection centre for toxic waste until he had a disposal procedure for it. It is intended to have a collection centre at Baldonnel but I presume that would not be established unless there were some area for the disposal of toxic waste.
Comment on this
The Deputy has put his finger on part of the overall problem. Unless we have a continuous process in dealing with this matter from start to finish, we will not have a proper solution. We are looking at the entire question.
Comment on this
The Rathcoole Community Council are very concerned about this matter and are anxious to get as much information as possible. Will the Minister agree to meet a deputation from the local community organisation to discuss the matter?