Alan Shatter
Ceist:27 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the proposals, if any, submitted for consideration in the forthcoming budget for the scheme of grant aid for the remediation of radon gas in households. [20828/99]
Written Answers. - Radon Gas.
Brendan Howlin
Ceist:59 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if her attention has been drawn to the fact that between 250 and 300 people die each year as a consequence of the ingestion of radon gas in their homes; the plans, if any, she has to introduce a radon remediation grants scheme for householders; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21784/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 27 and 59 together.
I am aware that international epidemiological research has shown a link between long-term exposure to radon and lung cancer and that radon may be implicated in approximately 10% of total lung cancer deaths. No funds are being provided in the provisional Estimates for my Department for the year 2000 for the introduction of a grant scheme.
The Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland has received the necessary funding to survey the extent of the radon problem in Ireland and to create public awareness of the problems associated with high radon levels. Following the completion of the RPII's national survey this year, we now have a complete picture of those locations designated by the RPII as high radon areas. Along with the RPII, I have been urging households in these areas to contact the RPII with a view to having the radon levels in their homes assessed.