Vol. 548 No. 3
65 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Defence if all former and current military personnel who served in the Balkan region have been traced for the purposes of screening, arising from concerns regarding depleted uranium; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4675/02]
As the House will be aware, as a result of public concern last year regarding possible environmental and health risks relating to the use of depleted uranium – DU – weapons in the Balkans, the Defence Forces put in place a medical screening programme for all Irish troops who have 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, were called to the various brigade centres to undergo the screening. Not all personnel responded or availed of the offer of such health screening. The screening process is still ongoing.
The screening programme commenced in January 2001. This medical screening programme was put in place to provide reassurance for personnel and their families and includes blood and urine tests along with a clinical examination.
I am advised by the military authorities that since January 2001, a medical officer has conducted the screening process, in theatre prior to their repatriation, of each member of the Defence Forces who has served with KFOR and SFOR.
