The ban on smoky coal was introduced in Dublin in 1990 and now applies to all towns across the country with a population greater than 15,000. That has led to important improvements in air quality and it is estimated to have saved 350 lives per year through the reduction in smog and particulate matter in the atmosphere. A nationwide ban on smoky coal was announced by the then Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Alan Kelly, in 2015 following discussions he had with the European Commission. A year was given to prepare the industry for that transition but it appears the current Government is dragging its feet on this commitment, even though towns across Ireland desperately need this measure. A person from Enniscorthy contacted me because air quality in the town has exceeded a dangerous threshold on several occasions. That is replicated in many other smaller towns. We understand the ban will now take place from September of this year. A number of suppliers are awaiting a decision by the Government before they invest while many others have invested already. Can the Tánaiste confirm that the ban will be implemented from September onwards? When will the statutory instrument be signed?

I understand that the reason for the delay was the time it took to secure the necessary legal advice. This was not as straightforward as it might sound. It is impossible to justify the use of smoky coals in this day and age but a transition period was needed because many small business operators were continuing to supply that type of coal. It is the Government's intention to move ahead with this ban. That is my understanding.

Will it be in September?

I cannot give the Deputy an exact date but I can come back to him after I clarify the position with the relevant Minister.