New research has suggested that a proposed series of British nuclear power stations to replace those currently being phased out may pose a greater safety risk.

Up until now it had been suggested that French designed EPR (European Pressurised Reactors) reactors would be both safer and pose less radiation emissions risk.

The reactors had been forecast to be less dangerous than those already in operation because they contain more safety features and produce less waste. But. information in documents revealed in the British media, shows that they produce very much more of the radioactive isotopes technically known as the "immediate release fraction" of the nuclear waste, because they could get out rapidly after an accident.

EDF, the French energy conglomerate, which is hoping to construct several of the EPR plants at sites in Britain, including several at locations around the Irish sea, say the plants are safer. However, respected independent nuclear engineering consultant, John Large, disagrees and says the immediate dangers from any release of radiation will be increased.

The Celtic League has consistently opposed the construction of new nuclear plants and said that the attempt to fast-track the planning process would cause safety issues due to a lack of proper scrutiny. This new information would seem to vindicate our concerns.

J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League

08/01/09