Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 May 2010
197 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the extent, if any, to which the threats of radon gas exists at either primary, second level schools or colleges throughout the country; the extent to which the issue has been dealt with to date or is likely to be dealt with in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18607/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department commenced a Radon Remediation Programme in 1998 when it commissioned the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII) to conduct a survey of radon levels in all primary and post primary schools. Radon in third level colleges is a matter for the individual institutions.
The programme initially involved surveying radon levels in schools and subsequently carrying out mitigation works where appropriate. The programme is 100% funded by my Department.
All schools were advised of the programme and where excess radon levels were located, funding is provided to schools for the mitigation works. Follow-up monitoring also takes place to ensure that the remediation action has been successful.
The radon reference level set for the workplace under the "Radiological Protection Act, 1991 ((Ionising Radiation) Order, 2000" (Statutory Instrument 125 of 2000)) is 400 Bq/m3. Notwithstanding the fact that the statutory reference level is 400 Bq/m3, my Department provides funding for radon levels exceeding 200 Bq/m3.
Radon barriers are included in the design of all new school building projects.
