Phone Mast on OPW Property
Mr. Gormley: I seek the adjournment of the Dáil under Standing Order 31 to discuss an issue of urgent public importance, namely, the decision by the Minister of State, Deputy Parlon, to allow a mobile phone base station to be installed on Ardee House in Rathmines beside St. Mary’s College and junior school and close to St. Louis’ school, given that the Stewart report in Britain has stated categorically that such an installation should not be placed near to schools, and the need for the Minister, Deputy McDowell, whose area this is, to ensure that his Progressive Democrats colleague, Deputy Parlon, would reconsider this irresponsible decision which poses a threat to children in the Dublin South-East constituency.
A Deputy: Hear, hear.
An Ceann Comhairle: Having considered the matters raised, they are not in order under Standing Order 31.
(later)
Mr. Gormley: With regard to the electronic communications (miscellaneous provisions) Bill, will the State take responsibility for the health effects of mobile telephone masts, one of which is situated in my constituency of Dublin South-East?
An Ceann Comhairle: We cannot discuss the content of legislation on the Order of Business.
Mr. Gormley: Will the Tánaiste take action on the health effects of mobile telephone masts?
The Tánaiste: I understand that even the Deputy has a mobile telephone. We will have the legislation this year. Does the Deputy have a mobile telephone?
Mr. Gormley: The Tánaiste is very observant. Why can she not do something about the mast in Rathmines which is beside children? She has done nothing.