Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 521: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which radon gas levels have been identified and monitored throughout the country in each of the past three years to date in 2010; the action or actions warranted arising therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31302/10]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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The Government, largely through the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII), has, for many years now, worked towards assessing the extent of the radon problem throughout the country. Between 1992 and 1999 the RPII carried out a comprehensive National Radon Survey to measure radon concentrations in Irish homes. The principal objective was to identify the scale of the radon problem in Ireland and areas at higher risk of radon contamination above the National Reference Level of 200 becquerels per metre cubed (Bq/m3).

Over 40,900 homes have now been measured for radon by the RPII. The results of these tests have been compiled into a central database, which has greatly aided our knowledge and understanding as to the extent of Ireland's radon problem. A summary of the number of homes measured and the number of houses in categories of radon concentration is included in the table below for the last three years. In 2007, the RPII introduced a protocol advising a graded approach in responding to reported average radon concentrations in homes above the national Reference Level. This protocol is summarised as follows:

Prior to 2007 there was no formal graded approach.

The Government's approach to radon, which is similar to that of the majority of EU Member States, is to concentrate efforts on increasing public awareness of the risks posed by radon in the home. Householders, particularly those in known high radon areas, have been strongly encouraged by the RPII to have their homes tested for radon and to undertake remediation works where necessary.

Furthermore, the RPII have carried out targeted information campaigns in high radon areas and in some instances where areas of particularly high radon levels have been found they have written directly to householders in these areas. This will continue to be the focus so as to enable and encourage householders to address monitoring and remedial requirements effectively and economically.

If a dwelling is found to have a high radon level remediation work may be recommended. Technical guidance on radon remediation techniques is available in a booklet issued by my Department: Radon in Buildings - Corrective Option. The RPII has also issued guidance: Understanding Radon Remediation - A Householders Guide. In addition, the website of the RPII provides a list of companies who can provide a radon remediation service and can offer specific advice and recommendations.

Members of the public can access information on radon on the RPII website, www.rpii.ie. Publications and information leaflets about radon can be downloaded free of charge. The RPII can also be contacted on freephone 1800 300 600.

Summary statistics for the years 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010.