The junction boxes to which the Deputy refers are used for voltage regulation and signal amplification by cable television providers. The electric currents associated with these signals are small and the electromagnetic fields produced by the equipment are much less than those generated by a typical television set or even an electric door-bell.
Concerning those individuals who suffer a variety of neurasthenic symptoms which they attribute to exposure to electromagnetic fields, a major investigation of such claims was undertaken by the EU in 1997, in which Ireland participated. This investigation did not find an association between the symptoms reported and the presence of an electromagnetic field.
There have now been a total of 13 different studies under controlled laboratory conditions where electrosensitive people were exposed to electromagnetic fields similar to those to which they attributed their symptoms. In these studies the ability of an individual with electrosensitivity to determine whether the field was on or off was no more accurate than if the decision were based on guessing. Studies on electrosensitivity are continuing and are a priority for research identified by the World Health Organisation's international EMF project, in which Ireland is an active participant.
