Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 16 Oct 1991

Vol. 411 No. 1

Written Answers. - Radon Levels.

Jim Higgins

Question:

61 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Energy if, in relation to the preliminary survey of radon in homes and schools, he will outline the remedial action which has been taken in relation to homes and schools found to be above the limit.

Enda Kenny

Question:

64 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Energy if he has satisfied himself that radon gas levels in the west of Ireland do not constitute a serious health hazard; the action he has taken to date in relation to the problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Energy (Mr. Molloy)

I propose taking Questions Nos. 61 and 64 together.

Final results of a survey undertaken by the Nuclear Energy Board in 1989-90 indicate that about 5 per cent of houses tested in the west exceed the reference level of 200 becquerels per cubic metre. This is the level agreed by the Government above which remedial measures should be considered.

Radon measurements have also been undertaken in 437 schools in counties Galway, Mayo and Clare. The survey identified 18 schools in need of further investigation. Advice regarding remedial measures in a limited number has been conveyed to the relevant school authorities and to the Department of Education.

Since 1989 the NEB have been undertaking measurements of radon gas in Irish homes. Work initially was concentrated in counties Mayo, Galway and Clare as earlier surveys showed these counties to have higher levels of radon. Any householder can have a measurement carried out by the NEB at a charge of £15 and a campaign to publicise this service in newspapers was undertaken in the west earlier this year. Where screening measurements indicate a level in excess of 200 bacquerels per cubic metre, householders are advised of the recommendation to reduce the concentration levels in their homes.

The Minister for the Environment is responsible for preparing and disseminating technical guidance to householders and builders regarding the treatment of radon problems in affected areas. A booklet "Radon in Buildings" is available from the environmental research unit of that Department.