Vol. 514 No. 4
59 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference in London on 17 December 1999 discussed ageing nuclear installations in Britain; and, if so, the measures, if any, agreed concerning their safety. [3315/00]
At its inaugural meeting at summit level to which the Deputy refers, the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference adopted an initial list of issues which will form a programme of work for the conference both in respect of non-devolved Northern Ireland matters and in respect of areas for bilateral co-operation. The issue of ageing nuclear installations was not included on that list of issues, neither was the matter discussed at the meeting.
However, the Deputy will wish to be aware that at its inaugural meeting, also held in London on 17 December, the British-Irish Council adopted the environment as one of a list of issues for early discussion by the council. It also included energy issues in an indicative list of other issues suitable for the council's work. The issue of ageing nuclear installations in Britain can be raised under either of these headings.
