Ibec calls for nuclear energy debate

Business body Ibec has added its voice to the chorus of calls for a debate on the possibility of using nuclear energy in the Republic.

Legislation bans anyone from using nuclear power plants in the Republic, although small amounts of nuclear-generated electricity make their way into the national grid via an interconnector linking the northeast with Scotland.

In a document outlining what it believes should be policy priorities for the next government, Ibec is seeking a full debate on the issue.

"With security of supply and energy costs affected by our 90 per cent dependence on imported fossil fuels, and environmental commitments to carbon abatement, Ireland must evaluate all energy technologies that may be used to meet growing demand," it says.

"As an alternative technology, the potential of nuclear energy in Ireland must be debated in an open, informed and timely manner."

A number of groups, including the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (Ictu) and the Green Party, have called for a debate on nuclear power. The call comes just two weeks after the Government joined three others from Europe in establishing a formal group opposed to increasing dependence on nuclear energy. The group includes Sweden and Austria, and wants to counter claims that nuclear energy is the only real alternative to fossil fuels.

At the time, the Government joined this movement, Minister for the Environment Dick Roche said there was a growing view in Europe that nuclear power was the only answer to energy problems.