51 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she met with the Department of Finance prior to the publication of the Finance Bill to restate the importance of the introduction of a scheme of grant aid for the remediation of radon gas in households; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4132/00]

The Government is not in a position to provide direct financial assistance in the current year to householders for radon remediation measures. I did have discussions with the Minister for Finance in October last year about a proposed grant scheme but I can give no commitment about a scheme at present. I am keeping this matter under continuous review.

The Government has committed significant resources to assessing the extent of radon problems throughout the country and in highlighting public awareness of radon. Along with the RPII, I have encouraged householders in areas designated by the RPII as high radon areas and who have not had their homes measured for radon levels to contact the RPII with a view to having the radon levels in their homes assessed.

I will continue to take an active role in monitoring progress on tackling the radon problem in households and in encouraging the RPII in its public awareness campaigns.