The Minister for the Environment has announced a nationwide extension of the ban on smoky coal.

The ban was introduced to Dublin 25 years ago and Minister Alan Kelly says it has brought significant health benefits including a reduction in respiratory problems.

An estimated 8,000 lives have been saved in Dublin since the ban in 1990.

Minister Kelly says there will be further health, as well as economic benefits to the tune of €53 million per year when the ban goes nationwide.

Alan Kelly made the announcement at a Clean Air Conference in Dublin this morning.