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Mobile Telephony.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 June 2004

Tuesday, 29 June 2004

Questions (24)

John Gormley

Question:

18 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself that there are no adverse health effects from mobile phones and mobile phone antennae; the way in which he intends to limit the use of mobile phones by children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18481/04]

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Written answers

My Department maintains a watching scientific brief on health issues relating to electromagnetic energy, including those related to mobile phones and base stations.

In 2002 the health council of the Netherlands, after a detailed evaluation of the health effects of mobile telephones, concluded that there was no reason to recommend that mobile telephone use by children should be limited.

In 2003 the national radiological protection board of the United Kingdom, NRPB 2003, noted that little had been published on childhood exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic fields. To examine the question of children's sensitivity to non-ionising radiation, the World Health Organisation held an expert workshop in Istanbul, Turkey, earlier this month. My Department's chief technical adviser participated in this workshop where the latest research in this field was reviewed. The workshop concluded that, while children were clearly more sensitive, no adverse health effects have been established despite extensive, focused research.

I am satisfied that my Department is in possession of the most up-to-date information available on this subject. The information indicates that there is no demonstrated adverse health effect from the use of mobile phones and their base stations, and therefore is no reason for me to act to limit the use of mobile phones by children. My Department will continue to monitor the scientific evidence and participate in the relevant international projects and committees.

The Deputy may be aware that the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources is planning an investigation of mobile telephones and any potential adverse health effects, commencing this autumn. My Department will provide whatever assistance is considered necessary by the committee in its work.

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