Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 30: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the possible effects of exposure to high levels of radon gas; and when clear guidance for local authorities on addressing high radon concentrations in social housing and otherwise will be available. [3491/09]

Michael Kitt (Galway East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas found in variable amounts in rocks and soil. When it surfaces in the open air, it is quickly diluted. However, where it enters an enclosed space, such as an ordinary building, it can, under certain circumstances accumulate to reach unacceptably high concentration levels.

Radon is a known carcinogen and contributes to the incidence of lung cancer. This risk is especially significant for smokers. Long term exposure to high radon levels presents a direct risk to human health.

The Government's approach to radon is to concentrate efforts on increasing public awareness of the risks posed by radon in the home. This is similar to the approach adopted in the majority of EU member states.

The Government, largely through the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII), has committed significant resources to assessing the extent of the radon problem throughout the country and to increasing public awareness of the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to high radon concentrations.

In addition, my Department has recently established a multi-agency group to examine the issue further and to engage closely with local authorities in determining the best approach to addressing any radon protection deficits in local authority housing stock. Discussions are ongoing, and guidance will be made available in due course. However, it should be noted that a number of local authorities, in Cork, Clare, Kerry, Tipperary, and Waterford have already undertaken radon testing and remediation action, where necessary, in their housing stock. My Department continues to support the efforts of such authorities under their annual improvement works programme.