Order of Business - 9th July 2008

Order of Business - 9th July 2008
Senator David Norris: I want to raise the repercussions of the European court decision on
environmental matters, something I sought to raise last week but was unable to due to the
number of speakers. This area was touched on last week in the context of the Haulbowline
situation, which is disastrous. The company involved attempted to sift materials by shaking
them in mid air, thereby spreading contaminated dust. It is unbelievable.
The matter I wish to raise relates to this. Among the matters referred to at the time was a
question I attempted to raise on Stanley sawmills in Offaly that was ruled out of order due to
a lack of ministerial responsibility. The question was debated but I was unable to have it
discussed on the Adjournment. The courts have taken an interest in this matter
and I would like the Minister to come before the House to explain the latest
position. It was an unplanned development that sought retrospective planning
permission, which was granted, along with an EPA licence, without an environmental impact
survey. That is astonishing. All of the conditions were then broken and chromium 6, which is
carcinogenic, was released into the environment.
An Cathaoirleach: This matter may be before the courts and I would prefer if it was not
discussed here.
Senator David Norris: I can reassure you, a Chathaoirligh, that this matter is not before the
courts but you are right, it should be. The practices of the Environmental Protection Agency,
which have been held up to serious criticism, should be examined. There is a continuing hazard
and this matter should be reopened, if not here in the Oireachtas then in the courts. I agree
with the Cathaoirleach on this and thank him for the suggestion.
I also wish to raise the issue of this country’s approach to refugees. There is legislation
planned to deal with refugees and the agency responsible for them but can the Leader tell the
House when it will come before us? I am greatly worried because an individual, about whose
activities concerns were raised in court in Ireland, is purported to have his position confirmed,
named and stated in this legislation, which is inappropriate.
There are many concerns about this legislation and I wish to put a case on the record of this
House that was brought to my attention in recent weeks. A young Iranian man is in this
country at the moment; he left Iran after an investigation, having openly acknowledged a sexual
relationship with his male partner. He is being served in Ireland with a deportation order.
What kind of people run these services? Are they unaware that this man will be butchered on
his return to Iran? If so they are unique because everyone else knows.
Senator Mary M. White: Hear, hear. It is disgraceful.
Senator David Norris: This was confirmed by the deputy Iranian Foreign Minister in these
Houses last week. He said they will not do it from a crane on the back of a lorry anymore but
they will still do it. What are we doing and where is the accountability? In the name of the
Oireachtas, I demand that the practice of deporting a person under those conditions should be
ceased immediately.