Question NW141 to the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries

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19 July 2019 - NW141

Profile picture: Singh, Mr N

Singh, Mr N to ask the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries

1. Whether, with regard to the current and future plans to roll out 5G, she has found that the electromagnetic fields have an impact on the ecosystem such as, but not limited to, birds, bees, wildlife and the environment; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; 2. Whether she intends to take steps in order to protect the ecosystems of the Republic with regard to the added frequencies being emitted by 5G mobile networks; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

The National Environmental Management Act, through the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations requires that activities which are deemed to have significant impacts on the environment be subjected to an impact assessment process. This process provides that the applicant willl have to carry out a study or studies where such infrastructure will be developed, to ascertain the types of impacts that such a development will have on the immediate environment and the biodiversity. These studies and the proposed mitigation measures are considered in deciding whether or not such developments can be allowed.

The roll out of 5G related infrustructure will therefore be site-specific and, as such, geographical context will inform the nature and extent of the impact required assessment. With respect to electromagnetic radiation, the Department takes guidance from the Department of Health, who have a dedicated unit that is mandated to consider the health effects of electromagnetic radiation.

Regards

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT, FORESTRY AND FISHERIES

DATE:

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