Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would like to clarify for the Deputy what exactly are the purposes of the quality assurance schemes proposed to be introduced by section 40 of the Bill. These quality assurance schemes relate to the individual and bespoke security measures to be put in place by a person or body licensed to hold nuclear materials, transport nuclear materials or operate a nuclear facility. It is a basic principle that security measures are not publicised and are kept secret. In fact, the amendment to the CPPNM has as a fundamental principle that member states "establish requirements for protecting the confidentiality of information, the disclosure of which could compromise the physical protection of nuclear material and nuclear facilities".

Clearly, to consult the public or bodies that have no direct interest or expertise in security matters such as environment and heritage bodies or even the Minister for Health about quality assurance schemes for such security arrangements runs counter to this principle of confidentiality. In fact, it could seriously undermine that security in the first place. If I wish to keep terrorists out, I am not going to tell them the details of my security programme such as alarm systems, guards, gates or IT security.

Also, the effect of the Deputy's amendment would be to replace the entirety of subsection (1) with her proposed text.

I do not think this is what she intended as the language of her amendment suggests she wishes to keep paragraphs (a) and (b) of the subsection. The amendment, as proposed, deletes these paragraphs and, as a result, the language of the amendment does not make sense.

I do not propose to accept this amendment.

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