Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 May 2026
343. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether his Department has engaged with representative countryside, conservation and rural stakeholder organisations, farming organisations, hunting associations and game management groups, regarding proposed EU restrictions on lead ammunition; and if he will detail the engagement undertaken to date. [35920/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra347. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his engagements with representatives countryside, conservation and rural stakeholder organisations, farming organisations, hunting associations and game management groups, regarding proposed EU restrictions on lead ammunition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35951/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 343 and 347 together.
Restrictions made under the REACH Regulation REACH Regulation (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) are intended to protect human health and the environment from exposure to harmful chemicals. Such restrictions may range from outright bans to limits on specific uses. Restriction proposals are brought forward by the European Commission on the basis of scientific opinions prepared by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).
Responsibility for Ireland’s chemicals policy, including engagement on REACH matters at EU level, rests with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE). Ireland is represented at the REACH Committee meetings for matters within the remit of DETE by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), an agency under the aegis of DETE.
My Department has no responsibility for matters relating to the manufacture, sale, importation of supply of ammunition. Those matters fall within the remit of DETE and other relevant authorities. In order to assist DETE in coordinating the Irish position, my Department has engaged in respect of matters relevant to its own functions, including nature conservation and biodiversity protection considerations.
