Group to study European nuclear safety

19 July 2007

The European Commission (EC) has announced plans to establish a high level group on nuclear safety and radioactive waste management. The group will develop a common understanding and reinforce common approaches in the safety of nuclear installations. The high level of representation expected from countries that operate or possess nuclear installations, as well as countries that have chosen not to use this form of energy, should facilitate Europe-wide cooperation and increase confidence in the levels of safety in European nuclear facilities, the EC said. "The aim of the group is to swiftly identify relevant safety issues, ensure coherent action by the Member States authorities and make recommendations on whether any course of action should be taken at EU level - I am confident this will reinforce the safety of Europe's nuclear installations," said Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs. The group will regularly report to the European Parliament on its agreed approaches and recommendations, as well as making public any decisions made via a dedicated website. The first meeting of the group is expected to take place after the summer break.

Further information

European Commission

WNA's Cooperation in the Nuclear Power Industry information paper
WNA's
Safety of Nuclear Power Reactors information paper
WNA's
Waste Management in the Nuclear Fuel Cycle information paper