Friday 7 January 2011

Nuclear waste committee reappointed

The Chairman and twelve members of the Committee on Radioactive Waste Management (CoRWM) have been reappointed for a second term of office by DECC ministers and the devolved administrations for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The Committee provides independent scrutiny and advice on long-term radioactive waste management, including storage and disposal and its role is seen as vital if the public is to be reassured about the growth of new nuclear.

Robert Pickard, Emeritus Professor of Neurobiology at the University of Cardiff will remain as Chairman till the end of 2012 with the majority of the rest of the panel in post till autumn 2014. After last year's announcment of the building of eight new nuclear plants discussions are underway about the safety implications for the local communities living near the stations.

CoRWM's job is to provide independent scrutiny of the UK Government's and Nuclear Decommissioning Authority's proposals and plans for storage and disposal of nuclear waste. Government is currently in discussion with three local authorities in England and the committee is keen to hear from the public if they have a view.

If you want to participate go to www.corwm.decc.gov.uk