Michael Noonan (Limerick East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 138: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether the health of persons who live near telephone masts is endangered; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15517/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The World Health Organisation (WHO) assesses on an ongoing basis the many reviews carried out in this area and has indicated that exposures below the limits recommended by the International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) in their 1998 Guidelines do not produce any known adverse health effects. These guidelines are based on a careful analysis of all peer-reviewed scientific literature and include thermal and non-thermal effects. In 1999, the European Community introduced recommendations on the limitation of exposure of the general public to electromagnetic fields, based on the ICNIRP guidelines. The Commission for Communication Regulations (ComReg) monitors compliance with these guidelines with regard to telecommunication masts on an ongoing basis. Ireland complies fully with the limits set by the ICNIRP.