Radon letters in Newry are a scam – Health Minister

Some residents in the Newry area have today reported receiving letters suggesting that it will be necessary to vacate their homes in mid-February in order to facilitate testing for radon gas.
~ Monday, 30 January 2012

The letters claim to be from the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) and appear to be signed by Health Minister Edwin Poots.

The Minister and the Department wish to make it clear that no such letter has been issued and any residents who receive such correspondence should report it to the police on 0845 600 8000.

A spokeswoman from the DHSSPS said: “Neither the Minister nor the Department have issued any such correspondence. Residents receiving these letters should report them to the PSNI for further investigation.”

The DHSSPS has also informed the NI Environment Agency (NIEA) and the Environmental Health Department of Newry and Mourne District Council.

Notes to editors:

1. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that seeps from the ground into all buildings to some extent. Concentrations of radon inside buildings depend on a number of factors, including the local geology, the type of foundation, the positioning of service pipe work and internal ventilation levels. Radon preventative measures are currently required by Building Regulations in new buildings in areas with elevated radon levels.

2. Northern Ireland Environment Agency has published maps showing which areas of Northern Ireland are at risk of having higher radon levels. Further information and advice on how to arrange a radon test is included on the NIEA website or on the Health Protection Agency’s website.

3. Media enquiries about this press release to DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 2841, or out of hours contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.