Finian McGrath
Question:155 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if there is evidence of the possible role of high voltage ESB power lines in causing cancer. [22794/02]
Written Answers. - Cancer Screening Programme.
A series of studies of this issue have been conducted commencing in 1979 when epidemiological studies first raised concerns about a link between exposures to power line frequency magnetic fields and childhood cancer. To date, scientific research has not established a causal link between electric and magnetic fields associated with power lines and cancer. Animal studies have also been conducted and the results suggest that extremely low frequency fields do not initiate or promote cancer. International research in this area is ongoing and my Department will continue to evaluate the findings of any published research in relation to this issue.