Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 1169: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the findings of the RPII regarding high levels of radon in buildings in Dublin and Cork; the action he will take on foot of the findings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21085/07]

Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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I am aware of the findings of the RPII regarding the high levels of radon in buildings in Dublin and Cork.

Over the years, the Government has committed significant resources, largely through the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII), to assessing the incidence of radon throughout the country, to creating enhanced public awareness of radon and to highlighting the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to high concentrations.

Since the 1990's the RPII has also carried out a nationwide survey of radon in domestic dwellings; it has issued almost 120,000 radon measurement detectors (this is just RPII activity and does not include any private sector services on radon); it has undertaken measurements in almost 33,000 houses, more than 3,800 schools (in conjunction with the Department of Education and Science) and about 2,250 workplaces.

There is a summary of the results, on a county basis, of the radon measurements carried out in houses up to end December 2006 available on the RPII website (www.rpii.ie). About 13% of houses measured were above the Reference Level where remediation works would be recommended.

The RPII consistently urges householders and others, particularly those in high radon areas, to have their homes tested for radon, and where necessary, to undertake remediation works.

Government efforts and resources, together with those of the RPII, will continue to focus on enhancing public awareness of radon and on improving information to householders so as to enable and encourage them to address monitoring or remedial works effectively and economically.