Ban on smoky coal could be extended countrywide

A ban on the sale of smoky coal could be extended countrywide by 2019.

It’s currently only in place in Clonmel and 25 other large urban areas nationwide including Limerick,Waterford Kilkenny and Dublin.

The Independent Climate Change Advisory Council will issue a report this morning which recommends banning coal and peat to make up for Irelands failure to tackle climate change.

The burning of smoky coal has caused major air pollution, leading to respiratory problems and premature deaths.

Climatologist at Maynooth University, John Sweeney explains: