Vol. 480 No. 2
203 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Health if he has contacted his counterpart in the United Kingdom to discuss the health implications to Irish citizens arising from the dumping of radioactive waste in the Beaufort Dyke; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13977/97]
I have not been in contact with my counterpart in the United Kingdom on this matter. However, my colleague the Minister for the Marine who has responsibility for matters relating to dumping of waste in the marine environment, has been in contact with the UK Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries who is dealing with the matter. I am advised information supplied by the United Kingdom authorities on the nature of the radioactive material dumped in the Beaufort Dyke is being evaluated here by the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland. Radiation levels in Ireland including the surrounding waters are monitored by the institute on an ongoing basis. The institute assesses the significance of these radiation levels for the Irish population and advises the Government and the public on any measures required for protection from radiological hazards.
