Dáil Éireann - Volume 445 - 18 October, 1994

Written Answers. - Border Lookout Towers.

Mr. Kirk Mr. Kirk

116. Mr. Kirk asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has considered the Loughill report concerning the lookout towers on the Louth/Armagh border and the indications that there would be a health risk to the residents of the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1420/94]

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Spring) Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Spring)

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Spring): I am aware that concerns have been expressed about possible health risks arising out of security equipment in use on the Louth-Armagh Border, including by Dr. Roger Coghill in a recent report. The Irish Government has previously raised this issue with the British authorities through the Anglo-Irish Secretariat, and received assurances that the equipment used is not harmful to health. We have asked the British authorities for any further views they may have in the light of the findings of the report to which the Deputy refers.

Our own experts in these matters, including the Nuclear Energy Board and the Department of Health, who have knowledge of the type of equipment used, have stated that they are not aware of evidence which would indicate that this equipment gives rise to health hazards. The matter is of course kept under close review, and the Deputy can be assured that the situation in the areas concerned will continue to be carefully monitored.

Dáil Éireann 445 Written Answers. Border Lookout Towers.

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