Jim Higgins
Ceist:48 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Energy the official levels of radon for County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Radon Levels.
Detailed information about radon levels is a matter for the Nuclear Energy Board and the Deputy should, therefore, approach the board on this matter. In general, the majority of houses in Ireland, including those in Mayo, do not have significant radon levels. The board have informed me that in those counties in which the board have been carrying out surveys, Galway, Clare and Mayo, approximately 9.4 per cent of houses have been found to have radon levels in excess of 200 becquerels per cubic metre. These are not final results, because it is necessary to measure radon levels over a long period — up to a year — in order to get accurate figures.
The Deputy may be aware that the Government recently decided on a reference level for radon in houses of 200 becquerels per cubic metre. Householders whose homes, following full measurement, are found to have indoor radon levels in excess of 200 BCM will be advised to take steps to reduce the radon level as much as possible below the reference level. My colleague, the Minister for the Environment, has responsibility for publishing and disseminating information on appropriate remedial action.