Dan Boyle
Question:34 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which concern regarding asbestos exposure among members of the Naval Service has been and is being addressed by his Department. [13158/03]
Written Answers. - Asbestos Exposure.
I am advised that all Naval Service personnel are screened for asbestos related illness as part of their annual medical examinations. Following a survey of the fleet in late 1999, a small quantity of asbestos was found in the machinery spaces of the four offshore patrol vessels – LE Deirdre, LE Emer, LE Aoife and LE Aisling.In December 1999 specialist firms were contracted to remove the hazardous material under the supervision of a firm of environmental consultants. The work was carried out in late December 1999 and early January 2000. The asbestos was removed in accordance with standards approved by the Health and Safety Authority.
With regard to buildings, the Department of Defence has been operating an asbestos management programme in all military posts, including the naval base at Haulbowline, County Cork, through the Office of Public Works. It is carried out by specialised contractors approved by the HSA under the guidance of consultants appointed by the Office of Public Works. It has been completed in respect of all buildings at the naval base.