Homeowners encouraged to test for radon gas in their homes

Homeowners are being encouraged to get their houses tested for radon, as part of the latest campaign by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Twelve counties in Ireland, mainly in the west and south-east, have been identified as at high risk of this radioactive gas which has no colour, taste or smell.

This week the EPA is focusing on homes in County Clare and asking families to apply online for a simple home test kit, costing about €50.

Stephanie Long is a senior scientist with the EPA's Office of Radiological Protection and she has said radon is linked to the development of lung cancer.

“Radon is known to be a cause of lung cancer, in fact it is the second cause of lung cancer after smoking,” Ms Long said.

“And we know that in Ireland up to 250 cases of lung cancer every year are linked with radon and that is why we are concerned to encourage home-owners to test their homes for this gas.”