Writing is on the wall for micro-plastics
Labour TD Seán Sherlock has said the announcement by the World Health Organisation that it will review the potential risks of microplastics in bottled water highlights the importance of progressing Labour’s Prohibition of Microplastics Bill through the Oireachtas.
Deputy Sherlock said:
“I welcome this announcement by the World Health Organisation that it is to review the potential risks of microplastics in bottled water.
“I’m sure anyone who drinks bottled water because it’s considered purer or cleaner than tap water was alarmed to discover that that water is likely to be contaminated with microplastics.
“While we still don’t know the extent to which harm, if any, is caused to humans through the consumption of microplastics, we do know they are causing havoc in our rivers and oceans and can cause physical harm or have reproductive or toxic effects on marine life if ingested.
“Ireland now has an opportunity to lead on this issue by banning the unnecessary use of microbeads in personal and cosmetic products so they don’t end up in our water in the first place.
“The Labour Party’s Prohibition of Microplastics Bill aims to do just that and I hope it will be progressed speedily to Committee Stage.”
“There is simply no justification for microplastics to be included in these products and today’s announcement by the WHO is a further incentive to legislate on this important public health and environmental issue.”