Environment

National Sustainable Offshore Aquaculture Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2011

National Sustainable Offshore Aquaculture Act of 2011 - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish an Office of Sustainable Offshore Aquaculture in the National Marine Fisheries Service at National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) headquarters and at satellite offices in each of NOAA's regional fisheries offices. Requires the Office to establish a Sustainable Offshore Aquaculture Advisory Board. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and maintain in the Office an aquaculture database, and (2) make the database available to the public but protect proprietary information of owners and operators of offshore aquaculture facilities. Requires, for permit issuance, a regional programmatic environmental impact statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) for each Regional Fishery Management Council and a separate environmental review under NEPA. Prohibits engaging in offshore aquaculture without a permit under this Act and authorizes the Secretary to issue such permits. Requires the Secretary to: (1) assess application and annual fees with respect to such permits that are sufficient to pay the costs of issuing, monitoring, and enforcing such permits, and (2) assess resource rental fees to recover from permittees a reasonable portion of the value of the use under the permits of ocean resources held in public trust. Directs the Secretary to establish and conduct a research program to guide the sustainable development of offshore aquaculture, including regarding: (1) industry expansion that ensures ecological sustainability and functional ecosystems and fisheries, and (2) cost-effective solutions to environmental and socioeconomic impacts. Requires a related competitive, peer-reviewed grant program. Prohibits permit issuance: (1) for a species having a fishery management plan under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson Act) or in a Regional Fishery Management Council's jurisdiction unless all relevant Councils recommend approval, or (2) if opposed by the nearest coastal state. Regulates the relationship of this Act to the Magnuson Act, the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, and the Coastal Zone Management Act. Regulates the assessment and liability for natural resource damages associated with offshore aquaculture.

Oil Spill Victims Redress Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2011

Oil Spill Victims Redress Act - Amends the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 to: (1) require all claims against each responsible party for removal costs or damages under such Act to be presented first to the responsible party or guarantor of the source of the discharge or threat; (2) authorize a state court to award damages or other relief to any person for claims under state law against any responsible party or other person; (3) provide that a civil action brought in state court with respect to a discharge of oil into or on the navigable waters, adjoining shorelines, or the state's exclusive economic zone is not within the original jurisdiction of the U.S. district courts, and is therefore not removable, unless a federal claim is pleaded in addition to claims arising under state law or the action is otherwise removable based on diversity of citizenship; and (4) provide that nothing in such Act shall affect or preempt the authority of any state from imposing on any responsible party or other person any additional liability or requirement with respect to the discharge of oil occurring within the state, pollution by oil having effects within the state, or any removal activities in connection with such discharge.

Highways Bettering the Economy and Environment Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2011

Highways Bettering the Economy and Environment Act - Authorizes as an eligible project cost for the construction of a federal-aid highway the cost of improving habitat for pollinators (i.e. bees, birds, bats, and butterflies) on rights-of-way adjacent to such highways. Directs the Secretary of Transportation (DOT), in conjunction with the states, to carry out programs that encourage: (1) integrated vegetation management practices on roadsides and other transportation rights-of-ways, including reduced mowing; (2) the development of habitat for pollinators through planting of native forbs and grasses; and (3) research and demonstration projects on economic and environmental benefits and best practices for integrated vegetation management, reduced mowing, and planting of native forbs and grasses for pollinator habitat. Authorizes the use of federal funds for the provision of habitat for pollinators that is related to a federally-funded transportation project.

Protecting Taxpayers in Transportation Asset Transfers Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2011

Protecting Taxpayers in Transportation Asset Transfers Act - Directs the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to establish a program for: (1) the attachment of federal liens to public transportation assets (federal-aid highways, highway or mass transit projects, air navigation facilities, or federally-assisted train or multimodal stations); and (2) release of such liens in connection with concession agreements between state or local governments and private individuals or entities. Limits the meaning of public transportation asset to a transportation facility constructed, maintained, or upgraded before, on, or after enactment of this Act using federal funds: (1) whose fair market value is more than $500 million, and which has received any federal funding; (2) whose fair market value is less than $500 million, and which has received $25 million or more in federal funding; or (3) in which a significant national public interest (such as interstate commerce, homeland security, public health, or the environment) is at stake. Prohibits any asset transaction (entry into a concession agreement for, or contract for the sale or lease of, a public transportation asset) for an asset attached with a federal lien unless: (1) the lien is released, and (2) the state or local government and the private individual or entity seeking the asset transaction enter into agreements with the Secretary. Defines "concession agreement" as one entered into by a private individual or entity and a state or local government with jurisdiction over a public transportation asset to convey to the private individual or entity the right to manage, operate, and maintain the asset for a specific period of time in exchange for the authorization to impose and collect a toll or other user fee from a person for each use of the asset during that period. Prohibits the release of a federal lien on a public transportation asset unless: (1) the state or local government or other public sponsor seeking the asset transaction pays the Secretary an amount determined according to a specified formula, and (2) the Secretary certifies that the required concession agreements have been signed and their terms incorporated into the asset transaction terms. Permits a private individual or entity to enter into an asset transaction covering National Railroad Passenger Corporation (AMTRAK) facilities and equipment provided certain conditions are met.

123 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the numbers of new build social housing units directly built and tenanted by Dublin City Council and Fingal County Council from 2007 up to June 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16957/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 June 2011

123 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the numbers of new build social housing units directly built and tenanted by Dublin City Council and Fingal County Council from 2007 up to June 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16957/11]

122 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the recent statement of housing policy means there will be no more rental-buy or shared ownership arrangements for low income families to purchase a home; the number of such homes that were delivered nationally in the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16956/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 June 2011

122 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the recent statement of housing policy means there will be no more rental-buy or shared ownership arrangements for low income families to purchase a home; the number of such homes that were delivered nationally in the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16956/11]

121 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his timeframe for the occupation of the empty and unfinished homes in Dublin north east which number up to 1,500 units; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16955/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 June 2011

121 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his timeframe for the occupation of the empty and unfinished homes in Dublin north east which number up to 1,500 units; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16955/11]

120 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the way he proposes to address the rehousing of the 19,880 persons and families on the Dublin City Council housing list; the way he proposes to address the rehousing of the thousands of persons and families on the Fingal housing list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16954/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 June 2011

120 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the way he proposes to address the rehousing of the 19,880 persons and families on the Dublin City Council housing list; the way he proposes to address the rehousing of the thousands of persons and families on the Fingal housing list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16954/11]

119 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the basis in legislation for a local authority imposing assessed rent arrears on a tenant who maintained up to date payments on the original rental contract with the local authority; if the differential rent system should produce documented revisions of rent assessments in the current recession and time of falling incomes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16953/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 June 2011

119 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the basis in legislation for a local authority imposing assessed rent arrears on a tenant who maintained up to date payments on the original rental contract with the local authority; if the differential rent system should produce documented revisions of rent assessments in the current recession and time of falling incomes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16953/11]

118 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to ensure that Cork City Council implements the noise action plan regarding the south city link road, N27; if funds have been ring-fenced for this purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16915/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 June 2011

118 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to ensure that Cork City Council implements the noise action plan regarding the south city link road, N27; if funds have been ring-fenced for this purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16915/11]

116 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 139 of 16 June 2011, the local authorities currently offering the facility for businesses to pay their rates by direct debit; the local authorities that currently allow businesses to pay their rates in weekly and or monthly instalments; the piece or pieces of legislation that provide for the collection of local authority rates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16888/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 June 2011

116 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 139 of 16 June 2011, the local authorities currently offering the facility for businesses to pay their rates by direct debit; the local authorities that currently allow businesses to pay their rates in weekly and or monthly instalments; the piece or pieces of legislation that provide for the collection of local authority rates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16888/11]

115 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the reason funding was withdrawn from the Community Workers’ Co-operative; the assessment criteria employed and the aspects in which the CWC was deficient; in view of the valuable work undertaken by this group in the most disadvantaged areas of society if he will consider the restoration of this support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16856/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 June 2011

115 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the reason funding was withdrawn from the Community Workers’ Co-operative; the assessment criteria employed and the aspects in which the CWC was deficient; in view of the valuable work undertaken by this group in the most disadvantaged areas of society if he will consider the restoration of this support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16856/11]

117 Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if persons with a long-term illness or disability will receive an extra allowance or waiver on charges for water usage, particularly when experiencing medical problems such as arthritis, the symptoms of which can be alleviated through the therapeutic use of water. [16906/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 June 2011

117 Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if persons with a long-term illness or disability will receive an extra allowance or waiver on charges for water usage, particularly when experiencing medical problems such as arthritis, the symptoms of which can be alleviated through the therapeutic use of water. [16906/11]

114 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the way he will determine the free water allowance to be granted to each household before such time as conservation charges are incurred. [16849/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 June 2011

114 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the way he will determine the free water allowance to be granted to each household before such time as conservation charges are incurred. [16849/11]

113 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding the walks scheme; if he will reopen the scheme to new applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16845/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 June 2011

113 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding the walks scheme; if he will reopen the scheme to new applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16845/11]

112 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will clarify his position regarding the imposition of water charges and commercial rates on community child care initiatives. [16963/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 June 2011

112 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will clarify his position regarding the imposition of water charges and commercial rates on community child care initiatives. [16963/11]

111 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will consider a waiver of the non-principal private residence tax for persons forced to migrate for work purposes due to the economic situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16874/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 June 2011

111 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will consider a waiver of the non-principal private residence tax for persons forced to migrate for work purposes due to the economic situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16874/11]

Responsible Electronics Recycling Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2011

Responsible Electronics Recycling Act - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to: (1) prohibit the export of restricted electronic waste to countries that are not members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) or the European Union (EU), or Liechtenstein; (2) require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop and promulgate procedures for identifying certain electronic equipment as well as additional restricted toxic materials contained in such equipment which poses a potential hazard to human health or the environment; and (3) establish criminal penalties for knowingly exporting restricted electronic waste in violation of this Act. Allows certain exceptions to such export ban. Defines "restricted electronic waste" to include electronic equipment (excluding parts of a motor vehicle), such as computers, televisions, printers, copiers, video game systems, telephones, and similar used electronic products, that contain cathode ray tubes, batteries, switches, and other parts containing lead, cadmium, mercury, organic solvents, hexavalent chromium, beryllium, or other toxic ingredients. Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require persons who handle restricted electronic wastes to permit appropriate EPA and state officials access to such wastes upon request. Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish the Rare Earth Materials Recycling Research Initiative to provide grants for research in the recycling of rare earth materials found in electronic devices.

Invasive Arten (Neobiota) in Österreich - öffentliche Aufklärung, Beobachtung und Bekämpfung

Austria · National Council · 22 June 2011

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Mag. Johann Maier, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend invasive Arten <i>(nicht einheimische Pflanzen-, Tier-, und Fischarten)</i> (Neobiota) in Österreich - öffentliche Aufklärung, Beobachtung und Bekämpfung

139 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the current numbers and grades of staff employed in North-South co-operation units in his Department as established under the Good Friday Agreement; the numbers in each unit when first established and the year on year change for his Department. [16825/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 22 June 2011

139 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the current numbers and grades of staff employed in North-South co-operation units in his Department as established under the Good Friday Agreement; the numbers in each unit when first established and the year on year change for his Department. [16825/11]

138 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government in view of the fact that it is almost one year since the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 was enacted, when will section 261( a ) designed to introduce a sunset provision for quarries in response to the findings of the European Court of Justice in case C-215/06 be commenced; if our failure to implement the ruling of the European Court of Justice is putting the State at continued risk of fines; the reason there has been a delay in commencing this section; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16798/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 22 June 2011

138 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government in view of the fact that it is almost one year since the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 was enacted, when will section 261( a ) designed to introduce a sunset provision for quarries in response to the findings of the European Court of Justice in case C-215/06 be commenced; if our failure to implement the ruling of the European Court of Justice is putting the State at continued risk of fines; the reason there has been a delay in commencing this section; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16798/11]

137 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will list the organisations involved in the development of disadvantaged communities which he or any Minister of State in his Department may have met with in the past three months. [16712/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 22 June 2011

137 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will list the organisations involved in the development of disadvantaged communities which he or any Minister of State in his Department may have met with in the past three months. [16712/11]

136 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to consolidate the current legislative framework governing the Environmental Protection Agency; his views that any attempt to consolidate this framework should be carried out in connection with a parallel attempt to consolidate IPPC and waste licensing regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16687/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 22 June 2011

136 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to consolidate the current legislative framework governing the Environmental Protection Agency; his views that any attempt to consolidate this framework should be carried out in connection with a parallel attempt to consolidate IPPC and waste licensing regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16687/11]

134 Deputy Brian Walsh asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on whether the reintroduction of a first-time buyer’s grant would assist in dealing with the problem of unsold housing stock; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16671/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 22 June 2011

134 Deputy Brian Walsh asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on whether the reintroduction of a first-time buyer’s grant would assist in dealing with the problem of unsold housing stock; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16671/11]

133 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if funding will be provided to an organisation (details supplied) in County Kerry without further bureaucracy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16659/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 22 June 2011

133 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if funding will be provided to an organisation (details supplied) in County Kerry without further bureaucracy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16659/11]

135 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the amalgamation option is still being considered by him as part of the capital review in relation to Bundoran and Ballyshannon fire stations, County Donegal; when he expects the review to be complete; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16679/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 22 June 2011

135 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the amalgamation option is still being considered by him as part of the capital review in relation to Bundoran and Ballyshannon fire stations, County Donegal; when he expects the review to be complete; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16679/11]

132 Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when he will approve the provision of a new fire station for Glencolmcille in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16651/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 22 June 2011

132 Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when he will approve the provision of a new fire station for Glencolmcille in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16651/11]

131 Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will sanction the provision of two new fire stations in Ballyshannon and Bundoran; his views regarding the assessment of Donegal County Council that a station in each town is required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16650/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 22 June 2011

131 Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will sanction the provision of two new fire stations in Ballyshannon and Bundoran; his views regarding the assessment of Donegal County Council that a station in each town is required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16650/11]

130 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of veterinary surgeons employed in each local authority; their job specification and the cost of this scheme on an individual local authority basis. [16714/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 22 June 2011

130 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of veterinary surgeons employed in each local authority; their job specification and the cost of this scheme on an individual local authority basis. [16714/11]

Department of Energy National Security Act of 2012

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2011

Department of Energy National Security Act of 2012 - Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Energy (DOE) for FY2012 for: (1) activities of the National Nuclear Security Administration in carrying out programs necessary for national security, and (2) environmental management activities in carrying out national security programs, with specified allocations for defense environmental cleanup and other defense activities. Directs the Secretary of Energy to annually review and report on computer security vulnerabilities at each DOE national laboratory. Recognizes the museum operated by the Nevada Test Site Historical Foundation and located in Las Vegas, Nevada, as the official atomic testing museum of the United States. Requires: (1) a report on the feasibility of federalizing the security protective forces contract guard workforce at specified DOE facilities, and (2) a study on oversight of DOE defense nuclear facilities. Authorizes appropriations for FY2012 for the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. Sets forth Maritime Administration organization provisions.

Coal Residuals Reuse and Management Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2011

Coal Residuals Reuse and Management Act - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to authorize states to adopt and implement coal combustion residuals permit programs. Requires: (1) the requirements of such programs to be no less stringent than the requirements of criteria promulgated for municipal solid waste landfill under such Act; (2) such programs to regulate the management of coal combustion residuals in surface impoundments and other land-based units; and (3) each landfill, surface impoundment, or other land-based unit which may receive coal combustion residuals to be designed, constructed, and maintained to provide for containment of the maximum volumes of such residuals appropriate for the structure. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to implement such a program for a state: (1) whose governor notifies the Administrator that such state will not implement a program, (2) whose governor notifies the Administrator that such state will implement, but that is determined not to be implementing, such a program, or (3) that is notified of, but that fails to remedy, program deficiencies. Prohibits the Administrator from considering such program implementation by the Administrator in making a determination of approval for a permit program and conditions under such Act concerning state hazardous waste programs. Requires the time period for a structure's closure to be set forth in a schedule in a closure plan that takes into account the site-specific characteristics of such structure. Prohibits the Administrator from applying such programs to the utilization, placement, and storage of coal combustion residuals at surface mining and reclamation operations. Prohibits this Act from being construed to alter the EPA's regulatory determination entitled "Notice of Regulatory Determination on Wastes from the Combustion of Fossil Fuels" that the fossil fuel combustion wastes addressed in that determination do not warrant regulation under such Act.

NAFTA Accountability Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2011

NAFTA Accountability Act - Provides that unless the specified conditions set forth in this Act are met: (1) Congress withdraws its approval of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) effective one year after enactment of this Act; and (2) the President, not later than 200 days after enactment of such Act, shall provide written notice of withdrawal to the governments of Canada and Mexico. Specifies among such conditions that the President confers with the governments of Canada and Mexico and renegotiates NAFTA to correct: (1) trade deficits, (2) currency distortions, and (3) the impact of agricultural imports on U.S. production. Prescribes requirements also for: (1) gains in U.S. jobs and living standards, (2) increased domestic manufacturing, (3) health and environmental standards, (4) a non-increase in crime with illegal drugs, and (5) democracy and human freedoms. Expresses the sense of Congress that until such conditions are met: (1) the President should not engage in negotiations to expand NAFTA to include other countries, and (2) trade promotion authority should not be renewed with respect to approval of any such NAFTA expansion.

Responsible Electronics Recycling Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2011

Responsible Electronics Recycling Act - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to: (1) prohibit the export of restricted electronic waste to countries that are not members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) or the European Union (EU), or Liechtenstein; (2) require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop and promulgate procedures for identifying certain electronic equipment as well as additional restricted toxic materials contained in such equipment which poses a potential hazard to human health or the environment; and (3) establish criminal penalties for knowingly exporting restricted electronic waste in violation of this Act. Allows certain exceptions to such export ban. Defines &quot;restricted electronic waste&quot; to include electronic equipment (excluding parts of a motor vehicle), such as computers, televisions, printers, copiers, video game systems, telephones, and similar used electronic products, that contain cathode ray tubes, batteries, switches, and other parts containing lead, cadmium, mercury, organic solvents, hexavalent chromium, beryllium, or other toxic ingredients. Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require persons who handle restricted electronic wastes to permit appropriate EPA and state officials access to such wastes upon request. Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish the Rare Earth Materials Recycling Research Initiative to provide grants for research in the recycling of rare earth materials found in electronic devices.

Opinion of Advocate General Sharpston delivered on 22 June 2011.#Flachglas Torgau GmbH v Bundesrepublik Deutschland.#Reference for a preliminary ruling from the Bundesverwaltungsgericht.#Reference for a preliminary ruling — Aarhus Convention — Directive 2003/4/EC — Access to environmental information — Bodies or institutions acting in a legislative capacity — Confidentiality of the proceedings of public authorities — Condition that the confidentiality must be provided for by law.#Case C‑204/09.

European Union · Court of Justice of the European Union · 22 June 2011

Motie-van Gerven over milieu-effecten van ggo's

Netherlands · House of Representatives · 22 June 2011

Motie-van Gerven over milieu-effecten van ggo's

Verslag houdende een lijst van vragen en antwoorden inzake de Wijziging van de begrotingsstaten van het Ministerie van Infrastructuur en Milieu (XII) voor het jaar 2011 (wijziging samenhangende met de Voorjaarsnota)

Netherlands · House of Representatives · 22 June 2011

Verslag houdende een lijst van vragen en antwoorden inzake de Wijziging van de begrotingsstaten van het Ministerie van Infrastructuur en Milieu (XII) voor het jaar 2011 (wijziging samenhangende met de Voorjaarsnota)

370 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health his views on whether accident and emergency departments in our hospitals are adequately resourced to meet the needs of patients and to provide a safe working environment for staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16301/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 21 June 2011

370 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health his views on whether accident and emergency departments in our hospitals are adequately resourced to meet the needs of patients and to provide a safe working environment for staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16301/11]

318 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will reconsider his recent decision on agri-environment options scheme top-up payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16210/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 21 June 2011

318 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will reconsider his recent decision on agri-environment options scheme top-up payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16210/11]

273 Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the level of financial support given to An Taisce per year for the past five years; and if he will consider the removal of the preferential treatment afforded to An Taisce vis-à-vis the payment of fees for objections to planning applications owing to concerns that many have relating to the organisation’s conduct. [16599/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 21 June 2011

273 Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the level of financial support given to An Taisce per year for the past five years; and if he will consider the removal of the preferential treatment afforded to An Taisce vis-à-vis the payment of fees for objections to planning applications owing to concerns that many have relating to the organisation’s conduct. [16599/11]

272 Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will confirm the number of grant applications made and the number and amount of grant approvals given by each area partnership and Leader group under axes 3 and 4 of the rural development programme for ancillary services to the sport horse sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16597/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 21 June 2011

272 Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will confirm the number of grant applications made and the number and amount of grant approvals given by each area partnership and Leader group under axes 3 and 4 of the rural development programme for ancillary services to the sport horse sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16597/11]

271 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when an application for a foreshore licence and or lease (details supplied) will be processed and a decision communicated to the applicant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16594/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 21 June 2011

271 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when an application for a foreshore licence and or lease (details supplied) will be processed and a decision communicated to the applicant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16594/11]

269 Deputy Noel Coonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the INSPIRE Directive, quality assurance for environmental management, as adopted in 2010 has been implemented; if not, the reason for the delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16548/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 21 June 2011

269 Deputy Noel Coonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the INSPIRE Directive, quality assurance for environmental management, as adopted in 2010 has been implemented; if not, the reason for the delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16548/11]

268 Deputy Noel Coonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the Statutory Audits of Annual Accounts and Consolidated Accounts Directive 2006, which covers quality assurance auditing for local authorities, has been implemented; if not, the reason for the delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16547/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 21 June 2011

268 Deputy Noel Coonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the Statutory Audits of Annual Accounts and Consolidated Accounts Directive 2006, which covers quality assurance auditing for local authorities, has been implemented; if not, the reason for the delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16547/11]

267 Deputy Ray Butler asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide a breakdown of the number of local authority houses that have been built in County Meath each year for the past four years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16544/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 21 June 2011

267 Deputy Ray Butler asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide a breakdown of the number of local authority houses that have been built in County Meath each year for the past four years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16544/11]

265 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans regarding the reform of the commercial rates structure to alleviate the financial pressure on hard pressed business people. [16464/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 21 June 2011

265 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans regarding the reform of the commercial rates structure to alleviate the financial pressure on hard pressed business people. [16464/11]

264 Deputy Paschal Donohoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the non-principal private residence charge is liable to persons who own a property here but live outside the State; if the persons are liable but have not been notified of the charge, if they will become liable for any penalties accrued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16456/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 21 June 2011

264 Deputy Paschal Donohoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the non-principal private residence charge is liable to persons who own a property here but live outside the State; if the persons are liable but have not been notified of the charge, if they will become liable for any penalties accrued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16456/11]

263 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to increase philanthropy here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16455/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 21 June 2011

263 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to increase philanthropy here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16455/11]

262 Deputy Paudie Coffey asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to use the PPS number system to improve the integrity of the electoral registration system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16417/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 21 June 2011

262 Deputy Paudie Coffey asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to use the PPS number system to improve the integrity of the electoral registration system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16417/11]

261 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he is satisfied that planning authorities are facilitating the extension of planning applications in accordance with the terms of SI 406 of 2010, to those persons who have been affected by the economic recession and are as a result unable to avail of the permission within the original timeframe granted; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that planning authorities are introducing new conditions to the original grant of permission; if he will assess the implementation of the statutory instrument; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16408/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 21 June 2011

261 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he is satisfied that planning authorities are facilitating the extension of planning applications in accordance with the terms of SI 406 of 2010, to those persons who have been affected by the economic recession and are as a result unable to avail of the permission within the original timeframe granted; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that planning authorities are introducing new conditions to the original grant of permission; if he will assess the implementation of the statutory instrument; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16408/11]

260 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding re-zoning; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16389/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 21 June 2011

260 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding re-zoning; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16389/11]