Vol. 572 No. 5
5 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment Heritage and Local Government if, in view of research showing that approximately 10% to 15% of all lung cancer deaths here are attributable to exposure to radon gas, he will reinstate the radon gas remediation grant scheme, to assist householders to take protective measures against the gas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23693/03]
Epidemiological studies have shown that naturally occurring radon gas concentrations add to the incidence of lung cancer. While this evidence is derived primarily from studies of miners exposed to radon gas at work, it is supported by the outcome of a number of studies on radon exposure in the home. There is evidence to suggest that long-term exposure to high levels of radon can be a contributory factor in increasing the risk of lung cancer and that the incidence is higher among smokers than non-smokers.
As indicated in reply to Question No. 1267 of 30 September 2003, it would not be practicable in the current budgetary circumstances to provide for Exchequer funding of a radon remediation grant scheme in respect of domestic dwellings. However, upgraded building regulations, introduced in June 1997, require all new houses commencing construction on or after 1 July 1998 to incorporate radon protection measures. The extent of the measures needed depends on whether a house is located in a high radon area. Over the years, through the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland, the Government has committed significant resources to assessing the extent of the radon problem throughout the country and to increasing public awareness of radon.
The RPII has actively encouraged householders in those areas designated as high radon areas to have their homes measured for radon levels if they have not already done so. My Department's booklet, Radon in Existing Buildings – Corrective Options, provides advice on a range of appropriate remediation options. For example, improved ventilation all year round would be an immediate and non-costly action to prevent the build up of radon gas in the home.
Does the Minister agree that it is extraordinary that due to budgetary constraints, and in accordance with figures from his Department, 200 people will be allowed to die from lung cancer this year directly connected to the inhalation of radon gas in their homes? Will the Minister compare that disgraceful negligence by the Government with the brouhaha surrounding the appointment of smoke police to police an area where it is estimated there will be fewer deaths from the inhalation of secondary smoke by workers in hotels and cafes? Will he explain why the 150 people whom it is estimated will die in the catering and entertainment industry from lung cancer are more important than the 200 people whom it is estimated will die from the inhalation of radon gas in their homes?
I would never make a distinction between deaths caused by any dangerous disease. I would not suggest that one group of people is more or less important than another. Everyone is important and precious.
The Deputy asked whether I will initiate a new scheme of grants. I am not in a position to do so and there is no point in my giving the impression that I am. Simple measures are the most effective in this regard. I refer to proper ventilation in the home. People should avoid a build-up of radon gas by ventilating their properties. Simply opening the window and letting fresh air in and out is a huge and positive contribution. As the Deputy is aware, the Radiological Protection Institute has made available information to people throughout the country as to where it thinks the hot spots are located. People can take remedial action if they see fit.
Local authorities have, of course, considerable control over how they use their resources. It is open to any of them to pursue a particular scheme they may wish to initiate.
That is a bit of a joke. They will not have many resources.
It is important that people are made aware of the issues and of the hot spots, and that has been done.
Is the Minister aware that 91,000 houses in Ireland have been identified as being at risk, being in excess of the acceptable level for radon gas, and that only 2,500 of these have had remedial action taken? This problem is continuing, but the people affected do not know they are being affected, because of the lack of Government action.
Will the Minister reconsider the Government decision to abolish the grant that was available to householders, which I introduced when I was Minister for energy. Would the Minister consider reintroducing that grant, which would cost much less to the Exchequer than the cost of treating 200 patients who get lung cancer and die each year from this particular cause? There are health and sound economic reasons for providing this grant. I am not suggesting the Minister is not personally concerned about the 200 deaths occurring, but if the Government is not concerned about them, then perhaps it is concerned about money. It would save money by introducing the remedial scheme and deaths would also be prevented.
I am glad the Deputy acknowledged that I am concerned that anyone would die as a result of this.
Some 200 people die annually. They are the Minister's figures.
There is much that people themselves can do to ameliorate the problem.
As can those suffering from secondary smoking. We are doing a lot about that.
Deputy Stagg did indeed accept proposals to establish a grant scheme, but it was never established.
Funding was provided but Deputy Joe Jacob, as Minister of State at the Department of Public Enterprise, subsequently abolished the scheme.
I am simply acknowledging that the Deputy brought forward proposals—
And got the money.
The scheme was accepted, but not one penny was paid in grants by means of that scheme.
Some £1 million was provided and the Department of Public Enterprise took the money back.
I do not want the impression to be given that the Deputy had a scheme and that it was abolished.
Joe Jacob was abolished as well.
The Deputy's proposals were accepted. I accept that and so did my predecessor, but neither scheme ever paid out a single shilling. Working with the RPII and the local authorities, we will be in a position to assist people, as we have done.
