The High Court of Justice has rejected a motion for a temporary injunction prohibiting the set-up of cellular telephony antennae in a radius of at least 250 metres from public institutions, educational institutions and hospitals. The HCJ did, however, rule that a petition filed by the green Party must be urgently heard.
The Green Party petitioned the HCJ to order the creation of an Israeli standard determining the maximum levels of frequency or electromagnetic field radiation in the vicinity of the towers on which the antenna are erected. The party also asked that an inter-ministerial commission be formed to perform an in-depth examination of the risks inherent in cumulative exposure to radiation from the towers, on the basis of which appropriate regulations would be enacted.
The Green party also motioned for the three cellular telephony operators to be required to install their antennae on the same tower instead of on three separate towers.
In response to this petition, Pele-Phone maintained that the Green Party was trying to intimidate the Court. According to the company, the petitioners are trying to create the erroneous impression that public health is being overlooked.
Pele-Phone utterly rejects the allegations set forth in the motion of a temporary injunction, saying that, in reality, things are very different. According to the company, its activity is essential, causes no health hazard and is carried out in accordance with the strictest standards, under supervision and in co-ordination with the authorities. Pele-Phone says it will not put up with acts arising from irrational phobias, unprofessional pretensions, ignorance and populism.
Cellcom notified the HCJ that average radiation from its antennae comes to 1% of the radiation level permitted under with world’s strictest standards.
Partner maintains that Ericsson set up its antennae using equipment that is in compliance with strict international standards, and that it operates in accordance with the directives of the Ministry of the Environment.
According to Partner, before its site was set up, it commissioned a hazards surveys by the Nahal Sorek nuclear centre. Only after the Ministry of the Environment examines the survey and gives its permission are the antennae set up.
As stated, Judge Mishael Heshin upheld the motion of the three cellular companies and refrained from issuing a temporary injunction.
Published by Israel's Business Arena June 9, 1999