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The remediation of buildings with elevated radon concentrations is generally straightforward. However, in some cases a number of attempts may be needed to reduce concentrations to below the reference level and, occasionally, it may be impossible to reduce concentrations to below the reference level in a cost effective way. This paper details the work carried out between 2004 and 2012 to reduce radon concentrations in a house with initial radon concentrations of almost 1500 Bq/m3. Over this period, high radon levels were consistently recorded despite the introduction of various radon remedial measures. Remedial work was carried out on ten occasions with 29 radon tests carried out to measure the effect of this work. The paper describes the structure of the house and the karst geology that it is built on and the likely contribution of these factors to the difficulties encountered reducing concentrations. Ultimately, radon concentrations were reduced to about 450 Bq/m3 but no further reductions were considered practicable without substantial and costly renovation to the house. Nonetheless, the remedial work carried out to date has resulted in a significant reduction in the risk to the homeowner of developing lung cancer. This work has also added to the understanding of radon remediation techniques in Ireland, particularly for houses built on karst limestone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mean concentrations of 137Cs and 40K in harbour porpoise are presented. Concentrations of 137Cs in porpoises originating from the Irish Sea were elevated relative to those from the Celtic Sea, Atlantic seaboard and the North Sea. Concentrations of 40K were comparable between samples from all locations and similar to those reported elsewhere. Concentration factors (CF) determined for Irish Sea porpoise did not differ significantly fromthose measured for other regions. The dose arising from 137Cs and 40K was dominated by the internal component. As most of the total dose was attributable to the naturally occurring 40K, it is unlikely that the increased dose due to the anthropogenic input of radionuclides has a detrimental effect on the healthof Irish Sea porpoise. Elevated concentrations of 137Cs in porpoises from the Irish Sea suggest they may be resident in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]