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Proposals Could See Councils Given Search And Seizure Powers Against Unapproved Fuels

Monday, 30 September 2024 13:20

The measures form part of draft air pollution plans.

Councils could soon have the power to seize unapproved fuels, as part of proposed air pollution laws.

The Draft Air Pollution Amendment Bill suggests giving the local authority the power to search homes and cars, in a bid to crackdown on smoky fuel production and distribution.

It follows an EPA report, which found a number of towns in the country still show high levels of particulate matter emitted from smoky fuels.

Edenderry, Birr and Athlone are among the areas most affected, according to that report, recording at least one day of PM10 exceedances last year.

Independent Ireland Councillor, Fergus McDonnell, says many people in Offaly are waiting over two years for access to retrofitting grants:

The EPA says the air quality in certain parts of the country is continuing to worsen.

Roni Hawe from the EPA says County Councils have a role to play in tackling air pollution:

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