Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 28 Mar 2001

Vol. 533 No. 4

Written Answers. - Defence Forces Medical Screening Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

34 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Defence the number of serving members and former members of the Defence Forces who have received screening as a result of the concerns regarding exposure to depleted uranium while serving abroad; if, in particular, he will outline the steps which have been taken to contact former members; if he has satisfied himself that all such former members have been traced; if his attention has been drawn to concerns expressed by some members that they have not been contacted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9009/01]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

As the House will be aware as a result of recent public concern regarding possible environmental and health risks relating to the use of depleted uranium weapons in the Balkans, the Defence Forces have put in place a medical screening programme for all Irish troops who served or are serving in the Balkan region, as well as personnel who served as military observers in Kuwait following the Gulf War. All personnel, including those who have retired, are being called to the various brigade centres to undergo screening. This process is ongoing.

The screening programme commenced in January 2001. This medical screening programme has been put in place to provide reassurance for personnel and their families and includes blood and urine tests along with a clinical examination.

To date a total of 258 Defence Forces personnel have received screening. No unusual medical problems have been detected.

Question No. 35 answered with Question No. 29.