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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 Feb 1992

Vol. 416 No. 2

Written Answers. - Infra-Red High Technology Beams.

Dermot Ahern

Question:

177 Mr. D. Ahern asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the concern being expressed in Border areas such as north Louth, regarding the infra-red high technology beams being used by the British army authorities in their observation posts north of the Border; if he will confirm that he will take this matter up with the British authorities in order to have these fears allayed, particularly the concern over the danger to health and animals; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I am aware of the concern which has been expressed about possible health hazards arising from equipment used at these installations. The matter has been raised with the British authorities through the Anglo-Irish Secretariat in Belfast. They deny that the equipment used in these installations emits harmful radiation.

Our own experts in these matters, who have knowledge of the type of equipment used in the observation posts, have examined this issue. I understand that the Nuclear Energy Board have stated that no harmful radiation is emitted by this equipment. Moreover, I understand that the Department of Health are not aware of any epidemiological evidence (i.e., evidence of a pattern of health problems) which would show that this equipment gives rise to health hazards.

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