Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

During the 1990s, the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland carried out a nationwide survey of radon gas in domestic dwellings. The survey involved the measurement of radon in approximately 11,000 houses nationwide. Based on the results of this survey, the RPII estimated that approximately 7% of the national housing stock, 91,000 houses, have radon concentration levels in excess of the national reference level of 200 bq/m3. This is the reference level adopted by Government for houses and is the level above which it is recommended that radon remediation works should be considered.

The RPII survey is the only one of its kind to have taken place in the country. The nature of the survey does not make it possible to estimate the number of occupants and their age cohort. As stated in reply to previous questions, increasing public awareness of radon is considered to be a more effective approach than the provision of State financial assistance to householders for radon testing of their homes or for radon remediation works. Such schemes are not operated by the majority of EU member states and could require very significant public expenditure and administrative resources.

The testing of houses for radon is a relatively straightforward, non-invasive and inexpensive process, costing about €50 per house. Furthermore, in many cases, relatively straightforward and inexpensive remediation measures, such as improved ventilation, can be effective in reducing radon concentration levels.

The Government, through the RPII, has, for many years, committed significant resources to assessing the extent of the radon problem throughout the country and to highlighting public awareness of radon and the risks associated with it. In this connection, I refer to the reply to Question No. 607 of 1 November 2006 in which I outlined the numerous initiatives undertaken by the RPII and my Department.

As part of the audit of the condition of the local authority housing stock, which is due to commence next year, I intend that appropriate arrangements will be made to survey the radon concentration levels in those houses. As part of their duties the landlord councils will be expected to take the necessary remedial steps.

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