Appeal issued for stolen radioactive material

GARDAI in Swords are continuing to investigate a burglary in which highly dangerous radioactive material was stolen.

Seven radioactive sources in a large red metal box (see attached photograph) were stolen from a premises on Balheary Road, Swords, between September 27 and 30.

A spokeswoman for the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII) said the materials contained in the box were dangerous and should not be approached or handled.

“The red box has radiation warning signs – yellow triangle with black trefoil symbol,

? she stated.

“These radioactive sources are hazardous to health. If handled they will cause radioactive contamination to the person’s hands and clothing with the possibly of internal radioactive contamination.

“Close proximity to these sources will result in a person exceeding the annual radiation dose limit in a matter of hours.

“If the radioactive sources are cut up or dismantled they could cause local environmental contamination as well as contamination of the person. They have no legitimate commercial or recycling value.

?

Dr Ann McGarry, chief executive of the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII), said it was vitally important that this material is located as soon as possible.

“I would also appeal directly to the people who have stolen these,

? Dr McGarry told Northside People.

“They may have no idea what it is that they have in their possession or they may have discarded them somewhere.

“If that is the case then I would ask them to contact us so that we can recover the items as soon as possible.”

A spokesperson for the Garda Press Office said the materials stolen were

“highly dangerous

? and should not be touched or approached.

If you are in possession of these radioactive sources then you should move to a safe distance of several metres and call the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland on 01-2697766 (out of office hours: 087-9163364) or Swords Garda Station on 01-6664700.

The RPII added that its first priority is to try to ensure the safe recovery of these sources in order to secure public safety.