asked the Minister for Energy if his attention has been drawn to a report (details supplied) concerning radiation levels in some houses in County Donegal, resulting from the presence of the radio-active gas, radon, in stone used in the construction of some homes in Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Radiation Levels.
29.
As I indicated in my reply on 3 March 1988, to a question on the levels of naturally occurring radon in Irish homes, a national survey on the problem is being carried out.
It would be premature to comment on the extent of the problem until the survey is completed. However, I understand that the levels found in Donegal to date are in line with both the national average and the average found in European Community houses. The results of the survey also indicate that the primary source of radon is geological. However, until the survey has been completed it would be inappropriate to comment any further.
As I stated in my reply on 3 March responsibility for any remedial measures as may be necessary will lie with the Department of the Environment, in conjunction with the Nuclear Energy Board when the final results of the survey have been presented.