Ministers Hear From Fukushima Governor, Tepco
Japanese Cabinet Ministers met Friday to discuss plans for how the operator of the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant will release a build-up of treated water into the ocean, safely and transparently.
They heard from Fukushima's governor and the plant's operator.
It is the first time relevant ministers have met, since the plan was decided upon. They said they want to prevent any reputational damage to local industries, especially fisheries.
They confirmed they will work closely on the issue and address potential challenges quickly.
The ministers say they are looking for the best method to discharge water --- prioritizing safety and transparency.
They set up a working group, which will listen to industry and municipal representatives, and create an action plan by the end of the year.
The plan will cover the two years leading up to the initial release of water, and beyond.
The wastewater is treated to remove most radioactive materials, but still contains radioactive tritium.
Before the water is discharged, it will be diluted so the concentration of tritium is well below national standards.
It will be about one-seventh of the level the World Health Organization suggests for drinking water.
The ministers pledged to ensure accurate information is disseminated, avoiding potentially damaging misunderstandings.
Fukushima Governor Uchibori Masao said, "I'm concerned that efforts made by the people of Fukushima Prefecture to rebuild their lives over the past 10 years, could become worthless. I strongly urge the government to take the lead and relevant ministries and agencies to work together to take all possible measures."
Chief Cabinet Secretary Kato Katsunobu said, "The government must take thorough measures to respond to your request. We will secure necessary budgets in the future without any hesitation and take concrete measures."
The plant's operator is the Tokyo Electric Power Company. Its president promised to provide accurate information.
TEPCO President Kobayakawa Tomoaki said, "We will listen to various opinions so we can create a situation in which people would feel safe if there were any reputational damage after the water is discharged."
Neighboring countries are continuing to criticize the plan.
China's foreign ministry says it summoned the Japanese ambassador on Thursday to convey its "strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition".
The ministry demanded that Japan retract the decision and allow inspections by an international engineering team that includes Chinese experts.
A spokesperson for Russia's foreign ministry said on Thursday that her country is waiting for a "more detailed explanation" of all aspects of the plan.