THERE IS no clear scientific evidence that electromagnetic fields are dangerous to human or animal health, a Bord Pleanála hearing into Eirgrid’s planned North-South interconnector heard yesterday.
Dr William H Bailey, a specialist on the potential health effects of electromagnetic fields, said “the conclusions of a health risk assessment typically includes some uncertainty because science cannot provide a definitive statement of risk about any exposure, including electromagnetic fields from overhead cables”.
However, he said there was no conclusive evidence to support claims that there was such a danger. “Scientific research cannot prove the absence of a health risk, rather the science evolves towards a conclusion that the cumulative body of research does not support a cause and effect relationship. At different points in the evolution of the research different questions remain unanswered and in many cases, unconfirmed.”
Dr Bailey was speaking on the second day of the board hearing in Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan. He is to be recalled later in the hearing for cross-examination by experts acting on behalf of the North East Pylon Pressure Group which claim to represent 45,000 people potentially affected by the route of the power line.
Over 900 submissions have been made to the board relating to the plan for some 140km of 400 kilovolt overhead line from Meath to Tyrone.