Tom Kitt
Question:354 Mr. T. Kitt asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if he will have arrangements made to provide free testing in the homes of residents in areas with high radon levels. [24559/96]
Written Answers. - Randon Levels.
Rory O'Hanlon
Question:359 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the measures, if any, which need to be taken to reduce the levels of radon in houses in counties Cavan and Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24635/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 354 and 359 together.
I refer the Deputies to my answers to Questions 16 and 29 of December last.
As to measures to reduce levels of radon, I draw the Deputies' attention to the Department of the Environment's advisory booklet which issued in August 1995 and is designed to inform householders about radon in buildings and to provide guidance where it has been decided to take action to reduce radon levels. The Minister for the Environment also intends to amend the building regulations and to publish a new set of supporting technical guidance documents early in 1997 which will contain provisions in relation to radon in new dwellings. Testing of homes for radon gas will be carried out by the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland on request for a fee of £15.
I can make no comment at present concerning free testing by the RPII in the homes of residents in areas with high radon levels. However, the matter will be kept under the review in light of Exchequer commitments and overall budgetary constraints.