Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 346: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide the information he has on health risks that may be involved in relation to pylons in residential areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7484/09]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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The report of the Expert Group on Health Effects of Electromagnetic Fields examined a wide range of issues in relation to the potential health effects of electromagnetic fields, including those produced by electric appliances in the home and from electricity pylons. It answers many of the health risk questions raised by the public in relation to the potential effects of electromagnetic fields, and is available for download on the Department's website (www.environ.ie).

With regard to Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) fields emitted by electricity power lines, the Report concluded that there is limited scientific evidence of adverse health effects. The Expert Group have recommended that precautionary measures be used, where appropriate, and that Ireland continue to adopt and enforce the international guidelines developed by the International Commission on Non-ionising Radiation Protection and endorsed by the World Health Organisation and the European Union. Further information on the World Health Organisation views can be found on their website www.who.int.