Statement by Minister Hagiuda on the Publication of IAEA Review Mission Report

April 29, 2022

1. Today, the report of the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) review mission conducted in February 2022 was published. In its review, the IAEA rigorously and objectively evaluated Japan's efforts to ensure the safety of handling ALPS treated water.

2. In this report, the IAEA recognized that the Japanese side responded cooperatively, and the review process has made notable progress. There are some technical indications.

3. Specifically, regarding safety, it was recognized that precautionary measures were appropriately taken in the design of the discharge facilities in following international safety standards, and that the radiation impact on humans was significantly below the level specified by the Nuclear Regulation Authority.

4. In addition, we have received a request for additional evaluations and explanations in order to further gain the understanding of domestic and international parties concerned. We will reflect these suggestions in our plans and continue our efforts to ensure the safety of handling ALPS treated water and to foster understanding both in Japan and abroad.

5. Japan will continue to receive review from the IAEA before, during, and after the discharge, and will cooperate fully with the IAEA to ensure that Japan's efforts are properly evaluated. 

Division in Charge

Nuclear Accident Response Office, Agency for Natural Resources and Energy