Interim storage facilities, but where?

 May 1, 2014

Briefing on waste soil sites to be held

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/english/news/20140501_34.html

The assemblies of 2 towns near the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant have agreed to allow central government officials to brief residents on proposed facilities to store radioactive soil.

The government hopes to build the temporary facilities in Okuma and Futaba towns. But the towns blocked the briefing sessions, saying the government's efforts were inadequate.

The government renewed the request last month.

Assembly members in both towns separately met on Thursday to discuss the request. The soil is a byproduct of decontamination work in the area.

Okuma assembly chairperson Yukio Chiba told the meeting that residents are increasingly calling for an explanation about the interim storage facilities.

After closed-door discussions, the assembly agreed to the briefing session. Town officials reportedly explained the government's development measures for the town and its stance in deciding on final disposal sites outside the prefecture.

Futaba Town also agreed to the briefing.

Seiichi Sasaki, chairperson of Futaba assembly, said the agreement did not mean the assembly has accepted the interim facilities. He said he wants the government to also brief the assembly.

The 2 towns will discuss with the government when and how to hold the session.

May 1, 2014 - Updated 12:01 UTC