Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
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Question 618: To ask the Minister for Defence if any scientific studies have been carried out at Haulbowline, County Cork, pertaining to the health and safety of naval and ancillary personnel relating to the former operations of Irish Steel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12758/10]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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Following concerns arising in relation to work undertaken on behalf of the Department of the Environment Heritage and Local Government at the ISPAT site, as a purely precautionary measure, an independent investigation of any potential health issues arising at the Naval Base in Haulbowline was undertaken in 2008.

A comprehensive and detailed assessment of soil, sediment and air quality was carried out to assess any potential risks posed to human health. The initial report by the Independent consultants was completed and the report concluded that any risk arising within the Naval Base falls within the acceptable range, meaning that there is no exposure to undue risks and that no mitigating action needs to take place. I wish to state clearly that there is no unacceptable risk posed to personnel at the Naval Base and this is clearly supported by the independent assessment.