John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 237: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of homes in County Sligo and north Leitrim that have been identified with the presence of radon gas; the order he has given on the introduction of a grant system to tackle radon gas; if the essential repairs grant scheme or housing aid for the elderly will cover remedial radon works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24004/06]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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To date, the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII) has carried out 1222 measurements for radon in homes in County Sligo. Of these, 302 had radon concentration levels in excess of the national reference level of 200 Becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m3). Of the 209 homes measured by the RPII for radon in County Leitrim, 13 had concentration levels in excess of the national reference level. I should mention that the RPII is not the only organisation carrying out a radon measurement service. There are companies in the private sector which also provide this service.

The Government, largely 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 health risks associated with prolonged exposure to high radon concentrations. Householders, particularly those in high radon areas, have been strongly encouraged to have their homes tested for radon and to undertake radon remediation works where necessary. Government efforts and resources, together with those of the RPII, continue to focus on highlighting public awareness of radon and on improving information to householders so as to enable and encourage them to address monitoring or remedial requirements effectively and economically.

On the question of grant assistance, I refer to the reply to Questions Nos. 82 and 98 of 13 June 2006.