People in Limerick are being urged that the distribution, marketing, sale and burning of bituminous or 'smoky' coal is illegal.

Limerick City and County Council and the Health Service Executive have issued an appeal as the weather is beginning to turn with cooler temperatures returning, resulting in more people putting on their heating in their homes.

The burning of 'smoky' coal can result in severe smog in calm winter weather conditions, which can have serious consequences for the very young, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions.

From a population health perspective, diseases of the respiratory system are one of the leading causes of death, both nationally and in the Mid-West (Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary), accounting for 1,894 deaths between 2013 and 2017.

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In a statement the Council and HEalth Service Executive said: " If you sell or burn 'smoky' coal, you are contributing to the creation of a health hazard for your neighbours, and perhaps your family and friends too.

"In light of the current Covid-19 public health emergency, it is also critical that levels of respiratory illness and hospital admissions be minimised as winter approaches.

"Please think of the potentially serious consequences of selling or burning 'smoky' coal. Your decision counts!

"There is no evidence whatsoever to suggest that 'smoky' coal is in any way cheaper or warmer than low-smoke coal. Burning 'smoky' coal makes no economic, environmental or health sense.

"Low-smoke coal is widely available and can easily be identified as it is packed in bags marked with the following text: 'Approved Fuel - Contents comply with the Air Pollution Act Regulations'."