Electricity Pylons and Health: The Case for Precaution

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Electricity Pylons and Health: The Case for Precaution

A government adviser will tell MSPs on Tuesday 23 May that there is a strong case for strict precaution in siting powerlines, and will warn that more research on the health-effects of sources of electro-magnetic frequencies, such as TETRA masts, is needed before further developments go ahead.

Professor Denis Henshaw is a guest speaker at the first public meeting of the parliament's cross party group (CPG) on electro-magnetic radiation and health, co-convened by Green MSP Mark Ruskell. There is ongoing controversy regarding the siting of pylons and the health impacts of TETRA, the emergency services communications system. Despite this,in April, the Executive awarded the contract for the fire service to TETRA. Dr John Swanson of Energy Networks Association will also address the meeting.

Mark Ruskell, Green MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife and co-convener of the CPG, said, "There are serious concerns about the impact of pylon lines on human health that need to be answered urgently, especially in the light of projects such as the Beauly to Denny powerline upgrade.

" We have to open our eyes to potential health effects and ensure that the electricity grid is fit for the development of renewables while safeguarding human health. I am delighted that Professor Henshaw and Dr Swanson have agreed to speak at this first official meeting of the new cross party group. It will bring the public and experts together with MSPs so we are better informed to engage in the important debates around planning, health and the need for robust guidelines for pylons."

Prof Henshaw said: "I am delighted to be coming to Scotland to discuss the range of adverse health effects that studies have associated with exposure to electric and magnetic fields from the electricity supply, including powerlines ranging from childhood leukaemia to depression and miscarriage."

Mark Ruskell was the first MSP to raise concerns about TETRA in Parliament, in a members' debate in September 2003, and has helped various campaign groups lodge petitions with the petitions committee.