Michelle Mulherin (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. I am concerned that although radon has been spoken of for some years, having talked to the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, and others involved in radiological protection, I have concluded there has been little effect on the general public. This is evidenced by the number of radon tests on houses. The map attached to the national radon control strategy shows certain areas with seriously high levels of radon. I believe part of the problem is that people feel a naturally occurring gas cannot be all that bad. The problem is that radon gets captured and cannot escape, thus causing a serious health risk. I live in Ballina, which has been identified as having a serious radon issue.

The level of radon gas was measured as the equivalent of 27 chest X-rays per day for the individuals living in the house in question, which is very serious. We need to consider giving grants in order that people can assist themselves.

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