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Verbatim report of proceedings
Monday, 13 March 2017 - Strasbourg Revised edition

Mercury (debate)
MPphoto
 

  Julie Girling, on behalf of the ECR Group. – Mr President, I am pleased to speak tonight in favour of the agreement reached between the European Parliament and the Slovak Presidency in December. This deal will help to close the gap between international efforts under the UN Minamata Convention and efforts at the EU level. The updated regulation will also allow the EU to give consent to ratification of the Minamata Convention, which was signed in 2013.

This was not an easy negotiation, but on balance the compromise reached is a good outcome. Although mercury use has declined significantly in recent years, releases into the air, water and land can still be a threat. This agreement will help improve protection of human health and the environment from exposure to mercury. There are updated provisions regarding the scope of exports and imports and the storage of mercury waste. Mercury use will also be banned in artisanal and small—scale gold mining, whilst the compromise reached on the phasing-out of mercury in dental usage is welcome. There is a ban on the use of amalgam for children under 15 and pregnant and breastfeeding women from 2018. Member States will have to adopt national action plans on the phase-down of mercury in dentistry and the Commission will study the feasibility of a complete phase-out in the long term, preferably by 2030. This gradual approach is important. I am a firm proponent of decision-making on the basis of scientific evidence. Dental amalgam is safe, effective and durable. The WHO supports a phase-down, recognising the need for further research and improved prevention.

I therefore ask Members to join with me and vote against amendments tabled by the rapporteur and the EFDD Group. This attempt to undermine a carefully-negotiated trilogue agreement must be defeated.

 
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