Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
238. Deputy Marie Sherlock asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the amount of dedicated funding that will be provided to each local authority to monitor and enforce the smoky coal ban and any future solid fuel regulations as part of the Clean Air Strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14312/26]
View answer239. Deputy Marie Sherlock asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will provide an update on the forthcoming Clean Air Act; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14313/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 238 and 239 together.
The Programme for Government 2025 commits to continuing efforts to raise air quality standards, especially in urban areas, ensuring healthier environments for all.
Since the introduction of the new solid fuel regulations in 2022, over €1m has also been made available to Local Authorities to directly support action in improving air quality. In 2024 grant funding of €500,000 was made available to support local authorities through a pilot ‘solid fuels enforcement’ scheme. Furthermore, in 2025 another €500,000 was provided for a new pilot project to support local authorities with the highest levels of air pollution to begin to develop roadmaps to improve air quality in those areas.
Separately, proposed changes to the Air Pollution Act 1987 contained in the Air Pollution (Amendment) Bill 2025 will enhance enforcement provisions regarding the commercial sale of solid fuel. These changes will also better align enforcement powers with those already available to local authorities under other similar legislation. The legislation aims to underpin the delivery of Ireland’s Clean Air Strategy and to support continued improvement in air quality and public health.
