Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 4 Dec 1996

Vol. 472 No. 4

Written Answers. - Sellafield Nuclear Plant.

Robert Molloy

Ceist:

162 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the representations or meetings, if any, which have taken place with United Kingdom representatives following an application by British Nuclear Fuels Limited to the United Kingdom Environment Agency for an increase in its area of discharge of authorisation for the Sellafield site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23521/96]

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Energy and Communications (Mr. Stagg)

On 15 November last, I was informed that British Nuclear Fuels had applied to the United Kingdom's Environmental Agency for an increase in the Sellafield site's discharge authorisation limits in the context of the normal three year review of that authorisation.

Following BNFL's request, my Department sought from the British authorities a copy of BNFL's application. I am informed that it may be some time before a decision is reached on BNFL's application. However, it is my intention to raise my concerns relating to the application with the UK authorities prior to that decision being made. The technical details of the application will be examined by the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland and in light of this I will formulate my views to the UK authorities.