Japan Press Weekly

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2011 March 16 - 22 [NUCLEAR CRISIS]

Scientists association demands raw data on N-crisis

The Japan Scientists Association on March 16 published a statement demanding that all raw data be released and that an assessment of the data be entrusted to relevant experts in regard to the on-going nuclear crisis at Fukushima No.1 Nuclear Power Plant.

The association proposed that in regard to evacuation, the possible risks of exposure to radiation and the disadvantages of evacuating be also explained to the public, and that a proper evacuation order be given out to nearby residents.

The statement has been sent to the prime minister’s office, nuclear-relevant government organizations, Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), and all political parties.

It points out, “It is considered that if TEPCO had taken seriously the lessons it should have learned from past accidents, the situation would have evolved into a less serious course. In that context, TEPCO bears heavy responsibility.”

Regarding TEPCO’s late reports of accident information, the statement criticizes TEPCO for “still remaining in cover-up mode.”

Furthermore, it states, “The policy promoting nuclear power generation itself will naturally come into question after the present crisis is resolved,” and “fundamental discussions on the use of nuclear power in earthquake prone Japan must be held.”

The Physicians for Elimination of Nuclear Weapons on the same day also published a statement demanding that the government and TEPCO “swiftly collect and release accurate information regarding the latest developments.”

The statement calls for measures to prevent the situation from spreading, provide iodine tablets to necessary residents as a means to prevent radiation-induced health damage, and offer appropriate medical treatment to residents who are exposed to radiation.