asked the Minister for Energy if he is aware of the passage of the McCormack Bill in the US which will fund a nuclear fusion research programme; and if Ireland will maintain links with the relevant US authorities to ensure that we have full information on the development of this technology.
Written Answers. - Nuclear Fusion Research Programme
246.
I am aware of the enactment by the US Congress of the "Magnetic Fusion Energy Engineering Act of 1980" which was signed by President Carter on October 7 1980. The object of the Act is to provide for an accelerated programme of research and development of magnetic fusion technology with a view to the construction and successful operation of a fusion power demonstration plant in the US before the end of the century.
Very close liaison with the US fusion programme, including arrangements for information, exchange and for examining the possibilities for carrying out joint projects, is maintained by the EEC, the International Energy Agency and the International Atomic Energy Agency. Our participation in the EEC and in the other agencies, and direct contact with participants in fusion research in the US, ensures that Ireland has adequate access to information on developments in fusion technology.