Vol. 467 No. 7
13 Mr. E. Byrne asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the proposals, if any, he has for addressing the need to enhance the health and safety aspects of the Euratom Treaty in the context of Ireland's Presidency of the EU and, in particular, in view of the future enlargement of the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14057/96]
The Euratom Treaty was drawn up nearly 40 years ago when nuclear power was in its infancy. Its main objective was the promotion of nuclear power. The health and safety provisions of the Treaty are relatively weak. In the 1950's, the dangers of ionising radiation, and the environmental aspects of the nuclear industry such as waste management, reprocessing and the use of spent fuel were not fully understood or appreciated as they are today. Ireland believes that the Treaty health and safety provisions need a complete review to reflect current thinking relating to the protection of public health and the environment.
The possibility of strengthening the Euratom Treaty provisions concerning nuclear safety has been raised by Ireland in the context of the Intergovernmental Conference which is considering amendments to the Treaties of the Union. Amendments to the Euratom Treaty require unanimity. However, Ireland is exploring areas where progress might be possible and is considering whether to submit amendments.
The possibility of enhancing the nuclear safety provisions is of particular relevance to the further enlargement of the EU. The safety of nuclear power reactors in Central and Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union remains a major cause of environmental concern worldwide. Undoubtedly nuclear safety in Central and Eastern Europe acceding countries will play an important part in accession negotiations which are expected to commence in 1998.
