Eamon Ryan to press ahead with smoky fuels ban despite Fianna Fáil opposition

Green Party leader said 1,300 people die prematurely each year as a result of air pollution

An ominous smog-like haze hangs over Cork city centre and suburbs recently, as seen from Montenotte, which is one of the highest points of the city. Fuel burning at home is the predominant cause, according to experts. Picture: Pádraig Hoare

Green party leader Eamon Ryan is to press ahead with a ban on smoky fuels despite opposition from Fianna Fáil.

Mr Ryan said 1,300 people die prematurely each year as a result of air pollution and he believes a national ban on smoky coal, unseasoned wood, and potentially turf is needed.