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Dáil
‹ Ceisteanna ar Pholasaí nó ar Reachtaíocht - Questions on Policy or Legislation

Radon testing in homes

Summary

Deputy Smith raised the health risks from radon and asked about mandatory testing when homes are sold or rented, or by the State. The Tánaiste said he would ask the line Minister to reply in writing.

A very concerning report on the risks from radon was published today by the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA. Radon is the greatest health risk in Ireland in terms of exposure to radiation. Fifty-six per cent of the total radiation to which we are exposed comes from radon, which is linked to 350 new lung cancer cases a year, most of which could be prevented. While building regulations for new homes require the installation of radon membranes, are there any plans to make it obligatory to test for radon when a house is either sold or rented? Will the State carry out radon tests on homes? With this new information on the number of homes at risk, will grants or financial supports be put in place to support households who wish to get works done to install necessary membranes or sumps?

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Leo Varadkar The Tánaiste Fine Gael

This is an important issue and the Deputy asks some valid questions. I am afraid I do not have an up-to-date answer with me but I will ask the line Minister to come back to the Deputy in writing.

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