Dáil Éireann - Volume 537 - 12 June, 2001

Written Answers. - Afforestation Programme.

152. Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if Coillte Teoranta will be using a chemical weedkiller (details supplied) on its plantations in 2001; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16931/01]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Fahey): The Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development is the regulatory authority for approving plant protection products for use in Ireland.

I understand from Coillte Teoranta that plant protection products containing lindane were replaced by plant protection products containing permaset from 1 January 1999. Residual stocks of products containing lindane were largely used up during 1999 and such products have not been used since then. Any remaining stocks are being disposed of in accordance with the governing regulations.