Vol. 461 No. 7
128 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health the current position regarding health and other associated risks from high voltage power lines; if his attention has been drawn to a recent study by Professor Hanshaw in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4077/96]
136 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to recent newspaper reports (details supplied) that a team of radiation experts at Bristol University, England have obtained evidence that high voltage power cabling might cause certain types of cancer; the research work, if any, he has carried out in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3576/96]
Limerick East): I propose to take Questions Nos. 128 and 136 together. I am aware of the reports on this matter; I am also aware that a number of expert authorities in the field, including the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland, have cast considerable doubt on the conclusions of the study in question.
The Department of Health's medical officers keep themselves informed of developments in this area. All significant research is also monitored by the Department of Transport, Energy and Communications and the Electricity Supply Board, and, where ionising radiation is involved, the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland. The Department of Health maintains liaison with these agencies in relation to the human health aspects, and the results of the study referred to will be assessed in that context.
