John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)

Ireland is a non-nuclear state. The Government does not believe nuclear power is the answer to our energy needs and would prefer to see greater emphasis on renewable energy sources. As a non-nuclear state, Ireland does not stand to receive any of the claimed benefits from the current wave of developments in nuclear energy but must still bear any trans-boundary risks that might arise from these facilities. In view of this, the Government continues to press for the fullest possible information from the UK authorities on any activities that might contribute to that risk.

My Department is in regular contact with the relevant UK Departments and agencies on nuclear safety and radiological protection matters. The Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland also has regular contact with the regulatory bodies responsible for radiological protection and nuclear safety in the United Kingdom and meets frequently with my Department to discuss these matters. Through these ongoing contacts, I am informed of key policy developments with regard to nuclear power in the United Kingdom, including the proposals recently published for consultation on the planned development of new nuclear power stations. Arising from my concern and that of the Government at this proposal, I raised the issue during a meeting last week with the UK ambassador. I have asked my Department to follow up on the matter at a meeting with the relevant UK authorities this week and seek information, predominantly on any safety and waste issues associated with the proposals. My Department's priority in all discussions with the United Kingdom on its nuclear energy programme is the safety of the Irish people and the protection of our environment, particularly the shared marine environment of the Irish Sea.

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