Vol. 491 No. 3
397 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will disallow the use of Garda masts by Esat Digifone at locations in Kilkenny, Graiguenamanagh, Freshford, Castlecomer and Urlingford in view of the massive public objection in each of the local communities and until an alternative technology is sourced by Esat which would not require the use of masts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11654/98]
398 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the agreement, if any, reached with Esat Digifone for the use of masts at Garda stations as sites for transmitters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11655/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 397 and 398 together.
There is a contractual agreement with Esat Digifone allowing it to install mobile telephony equipment at specified Garda stations subject to certain conditions. These conditions include a requirement that Esat Digifone complies fully with planning requirements, health and safety legislation, the Radiological Protection Act and all relevant guidelines which may be set down from time to time by the International Radiation Protection Association. Should any doubt arise in this regard it would be a matter for the relevant planning authority to consider. In this regard, I understand that the proposed developments at each of the Garda stations mentioned by the Deputy will require planning permission. Residents in each of these areas will, therefore, have the opportunity to voice their objections to the relevant planning authorities at the appropriate time.
The proposal by Esat Digifone to locate its equipment on Garda sites was approved by the previous Government, subject, inter alia, to the conditions outlined above being complied with. In return, Digifone is paying full commercial rent for access to the sites and providing certain services to the Garda Síochána.
