Vol. 501 No. 2
300 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if his Department has employers' liability insurance to cover irradiation of staff issued with mobile phones in view of the findings of the effects from low intensity exposures in the Vienna EMF resolution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5641/99]
301 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if his Department has public liability insurance which covers irradiation of staff and the general public from any mobile phone transmitters located on State property in view of the fact that, if the operating company ceases to exist, the liability may default to the landowner and in further view of the findings of the effects from low intensity exposures of the Vienna EMF resolution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5657/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 300 and 301 together.
My Department, in accordance with public financial procedures and in common with other Government Departments does not have employers or public liability insurance.
The Department does not own any lands or properties and the issue of liability for irradiation from mobile phone transmitters located on State property is not a matter for the Department.
In regard to the Vienna EMF resolution, I am advised that the findings have proven to be controversial among the scientific community as the bulk of research on the issue of non-ionising radiation has not shown the effects claimed by the resolution.
My Department adheres strictly to the practice of immediate implementation of national and international health and safety standards and guidelines as soon as they are formulated and adopted.
