I propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 22 together.
The House will be aware that the Government has engaged in a multi-faceted campaign to minimise the risk posed by Sellafield. This involves recourse to diplomatic contacts, bilateral discussions with the UK authorities and raising our concerns in international fora.
Recently the Government's concerns have focused on the proposed Nirex radioactive waste facility and the consultation process relating to additional information which has recently come to light. On 7 March, last Friday, the Government's observations in this consultation process were forwarded to the UK authorities. Additionally, I held a press conference in London on Monday of this week, to highlight our concerns and objections to the Nirex proposal.
Another issue which is current is the application by BNFL to the UK environment agency for an increase in the Sellafield site's discharge authorisation limits. The Government's concerns have already been outlined to the environment agency. I have reserved the right to comment further when the draft authorisations have issued.
My Department and the RPII is also preparing a submission to the UK Environment agency on BNFL's application to operate a mixed oxide fuel plant at Sellafield. This plant would manufacture MOX fuel from uranium and plutonium oxides recovered from the reprocessing of spent fuel. The consultation process will be completed in early April.
I am aware of the findings of studies commissioned by the UK Nuclear Free Local Authorities on the possible risks associated with the safety of the storage of highly active liquid nuclear waste in 21 tanks at the Sellafield complex. I have written to the Minister for the Environment and asked him to encourage the establishment of a positive relationship between Irish local authorities and UK Nuclear Free Local Authorities. I understand the question of financial support for the proposed studies was considered at a recent meeting of the general Council of County Councils and that they have now appointed an informal working group to consider the matter.
The UK regulatory authorities have themselves expressed dissatisfaction at the safety aspects of long-term storage of high level radioactive waste in liquid form. My Department has asked the UK authorities to speed up the process of vitrification in the interests of nuclear safety and radiation protection.