The source and intensity of cancer-causing radon in the Tralee and Castleisland areas of Co Kerry is among the geological features being charted by a new aerial survey.
Using data compiled from an aircraft flying at an altitude of just 50m (164ft), the Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) has already built up a picture of the Border region, indicating the presence of an illegal dump and providing new information about the extent of gas fields in the region.
The pilot survey, which will also assess the Silvermines area in Co Tipperary for mining contamination, is using magnetics, electromagnetics and radiometrics to probe the earth, building up a picture of rock formation and indicating what areas may be environmentally vulnerable.
The survey has uncovered new information about unexploited gas fields in the Leitrim/Fermanagh area.
The specially adapted aircraft has also completed a full survey of Northern Ireland which, it was claimed yesterday could, in connection with ground data, build up a "radon record" for households, particularly those in radon-vulnerable areas.
The aircraft is the property of a Finnish/UK consortium which has used it in both those countries.
Speaking at the launch at Weston airport in Dublin yesterday, Minister for Natural Resources Noel Dempsey said the survey would be a useful tool in environmental management, from planning to identification of vulnerable water sources.
He particularly highlighted the importance of data collected in relation to groundwaters, which he said was "such a vital resource, contributing 25 per cent of our drinking water". The surveys will provide important information on the water content of subsoils and bedrock, and will assist in indicating which areas may be vulnerable to pollution.
Mr Dempsey and GSI director Dr Peadar McArdle inspected the electronic equipment in the aircraft, with the Minister asking about the ability of the instrumentation to detect radon.
Dr McArdle said the surveys would be particularly useful in the Tralee and Castleisland areas of Co Kerry, where it was known that there was a high level of radon occurring naturally.
Radon has been linked to a number of cancers, and concern has been expressed about naturally occurring radon building up in households where people would be exposed to intense levels of the gas.
Dr McArdle said the surveys would highlight the areas where a potential hazard such as high levels of indoor radiation might occur, "which would pose a significant health hazard if not remediated".
Garth Earls, director of the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, said new information had come to light about the nature and extent of "traps" - rock formations that trap gas underground - in the Border area which would assist exploration companies in their assessment of the commercial potential of the fields.
