Radio masts to be tested for radiation at potential cost of £2k to Derry ratepayers after fears spread on social media

Derry City & Strabane District Council’s Health & Community Committee mandated the move after videos were circulated on social media alleging dangerous emissions from the masts at Glengalliagh Road and the Strand Road.

“People living in the vicinity of these masts need reassured that the mast present no danger whatsoever to their health and well-being,” said SDLP Councillor Rory Farrell.

Sinn Féin Councillor Sandra Duffy agreed: “There was a huge amount of fear in the local area that was being generated by a video that had been circulating on social media and then a number of people gaining access to one of the local schools causing quite a large amount of disruption in the local community.”

Seamus Donaghey, Head of Health and Community Well-being, updated members on the results of an Ofcom survey of electromagnetic fields (EMF) at a number of 5G base stations in the UK. It found the highest levels of EMF from 5G were far smaller than those from older radio technology.

Mr. Donaghey advised that Ofcom screens stations near schools or hospitals upon request but there is a charge of £1,000 otherwise. Members agreed to ask whether the masts at Carnhill and the Strand qualified and if not to spend the required £2,000 to have both masts surveyed.

Colr. Duffy said people in Carnhill had been frightened by the allegations: “They were told illnesses that they had were as a result of the masts that were there. I think we have a duty to those residents to put their minds at rest. I welcome the fact that the report says the radiation is low.”