01/12/04 - EPA spells out independent statutory role

IN response to the letter headlined 'Who does EPA protect?' (Irish Examiner, November 22), the Environmental Protection Association would like to clarify the following:

The EPA is an independent public body established in July 1993 under the Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1992.

We have a wide range of functions to protect the environment. These include monitoring and reporting and a mandate to license and control activities with the potential for serious pollution.

The EPA's office of environmental enforcement is directly responsible for the active enforcement of over 1,000 EPA licences which have been issued for waste, industrial and other activities. Since its establishment 12 months ago, the office has conducted 2,000 inspections of licensed facilities; issued 550 notices of non-compliance; issued two directions to local authorities; prosecuted 21 licensees through the district courts and has a further 20 prosecutions pending.

The EPA will continue strictly to enforce environmental legislation, adopting an uncompromising stance against those who act outside the law, in order to protect and improve the natural environment for present and future generations.

Niamh Leahy
Press Officer
EPA Headquarters
PO Box 3000
Johnstown Castle Estate
Co Wexford