Mr. John McCusker:

Many members mentioned the excellent report. We pointed out in our submission that the European Commission has set up a scientific committee on emerging and newly identified health risks, which has produced two reports over the past number of years. They state that the scientific evidence remains uncertain, EMFs are possibly carcinogenic and might contribute to an increase in childhood leukemia.

In addition, they state that, on the basis of their statistical analysis and current review, some type of link cannot be ruled out.

Mental health, which is a major problem in Ireland, is also an issue. If this project proceeds, it has the potential to create serious negative equity problems for tens of thousands of householders. I am sure the banks will rub their hands and take great interest in how they will get their money back. How is this issue and the impact of this project on mental health being addressed? Evidence regarding the health issues arising from the project is described as "inconclusive". What does this word mean? It means no one can state definitively that the problem has not been caused. The statistical evidence suggests there is a link of some description but science has not yet caught up. As in the case of asbestos and passive smoking for many years, science has not yet caught up. Will we come to regret our decision when it catches up?

I will return to the issues of mental health, negative equity and how many people will be affected. When the EirGrid project in Rush was before the forum a few years ago, the Minister for Health, Deputy Reilly, wrote to the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Rabbitte. I understand members have a copy of that correspondence in which the Minister outlined his concerns about health issues arising from the project. If our Minister for Health has concerns, why is the Government allowing these projects to proceed in the manner proposed?