asked the Minister for the Environment if he has carried out any assessment of the projected growth of coal usage in electricity generation, on air quality; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The impact on air quality of the use of coal for electricity generation is kept under continuous review. The statutory environmental requirements, including those relating to the impact of emissions on air quality, in relation to the Moneypoint plant are set out in the planning permission granted by Clare County Council in 1979. This took account of an ecological impact study and a study of the consequences for agriculture. It is for Clare County Council to ensure compliance with the Moneypoint planning permission. In addition to monitoring within the plant itself, 11 stations in Clare monitor the air pollution requirements of the planning permission. In the period for which the plant has been operating, these requirements have been met.