Staff in Leinster House are undergoing intensive medical checks following fears they may have been exposed to asbestos. Ushers, security staff, caterers and administrative workers have been offered the medical examinations after traces of asbestos were found in the Dail basement during the summer.
The Oireachtas public relations officer confirmed yesterday that 4 1/2 -hour examinations were being carried out in Beaumont Hospital. They are open to staff members who think they may have been exposed. It is not known how many have taken up the offer.
Concerns were raised last year when asbestos was found in old heating pipes in the basement by contractors building new offices. The area was evacuated while the asbestos was removed.
The building material can cause cancer if the fine dust particles are inhaled. Even exposure of two to three weeks can cause mesothelioma, a tumour of the lung lining, the most serious complication. However, asbestos is dangerous only if it is disturbed and gets into the air.
As a result of last year's incident a consultant was brought into Leinster House in March to address staff on the issue. Following this, it was agreed to organise health checks for staff.
"All staff who spent time working in the basement in recent years have been offered the opportunity for the medical examinations. A small trace of asbestos was found in the basement last summer. The likelihood of anyone being affected is remote but it is hoped the examinations will allay any fears," the Leinster House spokeswoman said.
The Office of Public Works is undertaking a major asbestos removal operation from almost 2,000 public buildings around the State. Asbestos in Leinster House has been removed.
The use of most types of asbestos in buildings has been discontinued for a number of years. It was used extensively for thermal and acoustic insulation up to and including the 1970s.
It is not known if any Leinster House staff intend to sue the State for compensation for exposure to asbestos. The Government is facing huge compensation claims from staff in the ESB and Eircom for serious respiratory illness contracted following asbestos exposure.