govt to ensure lynas comply with iaea

Going by the tone of the article, pretty much the Government is on our side? Just need to submit the waste management document so they can give us the pre-op license.

Government To Ensure Lynas Comply With All IAEA Panel Recommendations

KUALA LUMPUR, July 5 (Bernama) -- The government said it will ensure that Lynas comply with all recommendations by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) panel before the company can proceed with its rare earth plant project in Gebeng.

"Until this is done, the status quo remains: there will be no importation of raw materials into the country and no operational activities will be allowed on site," said a joint statement by International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed and Science, Technology and Innovation Miniser Datuk Dr Maximus Johnity Ongkili.

The statement was issued by the Information Department.

They also said Lynas has the full responsibility to provide a comprehensive long-term detailed plan for waste management, including at the decommissioning and remediation level, before any further licensing approval can be considered by the government.

On June 30, the government made public the IAEA report on the health and safety aspect of the proposed Lynas project. The 55-page report covers issues dealing with radiation protection, waste management, decommissioning and environment remediation, transportation and safety assessment.

The IAEA panel, which comprised world renowned experts in the areas of radiology health and safety, did not find any non-compliance with the international radiation safety standards with the project but outlined 11 recommendations for the project to move forward covering both technical and communications aspects.

In the statement, the ministers also said the government was committed to improve the management of the regulatory function by the Atomic Energy Licensing Board and other agencies as highlighted by the IAEA report.

"We will also strengthen the communications aspect of the project to improve public understanding of those actions taken by the regulatory bodies, especially those relating to inspection and enforcement at the Lynas plant," they said.

"Rest assured, the government will continue to undertake the required monitoring and enforcement measures to ensure that all aspects of public health and safety of the project are satisfactorily addressed.

"Public health and safety will not be compromised at all times," the ministers said.