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DEPUTY MINISTER SHABANGU RELEASED A DRAFT RADIOACTIVE WASTE MANAGEMENT POLICY AND STRATEGY FOR SOUTH AFRICA
Today, 03 September 2003, the Deputy Minister of Minerals and Energy, Ms Susan Shabangu, released a draft radioactive waste management policy and strategy for the Republic of South Africa for public comment. The purpose of the draft policy is to establish a comprehensive radioactive waste governance framework by formulating a policy and implementation strategy in consultation with all stakeholders.
The Radioactive Waste Management Policy and Strategy outlines government's thinking in relation to radioactive waste management. This is a bold policy with a broad vision founded on respect for all the relevant principles for the safe management of radioactive waste. Chief among these is the protection of human health and the commitment to protect future generations in its implementation.
The draft document reflects the following:
* International and national principles for the safe management of radioactive waste
* Responsibilities of government, radioactive waste generators and regulators
* Basic principles and evaluation/authorisation processes for radioactive waste management plans
* Management structures to service the radioactive waste management obligations of the Minister of Minerals and Energy, in consultation with the Ministers of Environmental Affairs and Tourism and Water Affairs and Forestry, as provided for in the Nuclear Energy Act.
* A national radioactive waste classification scheme
* A long-term radioactive waste management fund
* Undertakings to investigate the best long-term option for spent fuel management
The radioactive waste management policy is founded on the belief that all nuclear resources of South Africa are a national asset and the heritage of its entire people, and should be managed and developed for the benefit of present and future generations in the country as a whole. The draft policy can be accessed on http://www.dme.gov.za. The Department of Minerals and Energy will organise workshops on the policy and strategy during October 2003.
Enquiries: Mr Kanyo Gqulu on 012) 317 9086, 083 293 3377, E-mail: kefilwe@mepta.pwv.gov.za
Issued by Department of Minerals and Energy
3 September 2003