Kathleen Lynch
Ceist:12 Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications his views on the possible environmental and health impact of digital radio masts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14059/96]
Written Answers. - Digital Radio Masts.
Seamus Brennan
Ceist:16 Mr. S. Brennan asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the research, if any, his Department is undertaking in respect of the impact of masts, such as mobile phone masts, on the health of communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14172/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 12 and 16 together.
The question of environmental impact of transmitting antennae and associated masts is primarily a matter for local planning authorities and An Bord Pleanála. I am aware that my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, is in the process of finalising guidelines for planning authorities on telecommunications antennae. I also understand that this matter is the subject of a separate question to the Minister for the Environment today and it, therefore, needs no further elaboration by me.
I have, however, requested the State companies under my aegis who have relevant infrastructure to facilitate colocation where feasible.
According to the best available scientific authorities, endorsed in April this year by the International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection, there is no substantive evidence that adverse health effects can occur in people exposed to non-ionising radiation at the levels associated with telecommunications masts. These levels are well below internationally recognised safe limits.
The international limits are mandatory ceilings under the terms of licences issues by me such as the ESAT DIGIFONE GSM licence.
Forbairt has measured emissions from base stations at a number of locations and found them to be a small fraction of the recognised international limits. I will ensure that that there will be an ongoing degree of monitoring of such emissions.
My Department monitors the international research effort on this subject but does not carry out separate research.