Thank you, Madam Chair.
Ladies and gentlemen, good morning and welcome to the committee.
You would not think it, but I am very sensitive. It does not show, but I am, both emotionally and physically. I really believe that microwaves can affect people. I especially do not want a confrontation between the industry and health advocates, either today or in the future. I would prefer that both sides work together to find solutions.
A number of years ago, I used to wear my cell phone on my belt, back when they used to have small antennas sticking out from them. Then, one day, I developed a rash in the exact spot where I wore my cell phone, and it worried me. I got the feeling that it was caused by the phone, so I started carrying my cell phone in a different place, and the problem went away. I wanted to know whether the problem was in fact caused by the cell phone, so I put it back on my belt, and the problem came back. That was enough to convince me.
Today, as much as possible, I wear earphones when talking on my cell phone in the car. I do not carry the device that can capture the waves directly on my person. When I have to hold the phone directly to my ear, it feels totally different. By the way, when I used to wear my old cell phone on my belt, I knew it was going to ring even before it made a sound. I am convinced there is something to that and that we need to work on determining the levels. Some people are probably more sensitive to it than others. It is certainly not the majority of people, or else the source of the problem would have been found by now.
I think this is an excellent opportunity for the CWTA to determine the scope of the problem. As far as facilities go, I think we need to do more than just applying the precautionary principle. Ideally, even if there are more people who are not sensitive to the phenomenon than who are, the law of the majority should not rule. This is a case where we need to intervene for everyone's sake. And we need to work together in order to succeed.
The story I just recounted is a bit of anecdotal evidence. I am convinced there is something to it. The question is how do we come up with a solution. The industry is here to stay, and it will. People, however, are not like industries. They do not live forever. It is my hope, though, that they live long and well.
I want to know what the representatives on both sides recommend.