Nuclear power - Don’t leave it too late

The report from the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPI) that concluded British plans to build up to eight nuclear power plants pose only a “very low” risk to Ireland is welcome and reassuring.

The study indirectly raises questions for Ireland and our long-term energy strategy. We still import 90% of our energy and even the most ardent supporter of renewable energy schemes will not suggest they can satisfy demand. There seems too to be a growing and determined opposition to wind farms as the consequences of living near one becomes more familiar to more people.

There seems an inevitability about nuclear power so maybe we should begin to prepare to build one even if, in time, we do not, as beginning that process when we need the energy would be far, far too late.