Emmet Stagg
Question:51 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on whether radon gas in homes has led to deaths from lung cancer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13005/99]
Written Answers. - Radon Gas Levels.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas. Long-term exposure to very high levels of radon gas in an enclosed area can be a contributory factor in increasing the risk of lung cancer, particularly where other factors such as cigarette smoking are involved.
The monitoring of radiation levels in the State is carried out by the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland. The institute provides a radon measurement and advisory service to householders.
The institute has been carrying out a national geographically based radon survey since 1992 and has published two reports to date. A further report is due to be published shortly. The survey identifies areas of greater risk from high indoor radon levels and the results will be used to provide a comprehensive map of those areas in the country most affected by radon.