A risk assessment compiled by the Department of the Environment in the wake of the Brexit referendum warns of a “high operational risk” to arrangements Ireland has with the UK on nuclear policy. The briefing document says environmental assessments and mandatory consultation processes “may prove more difficult” to enforce when Britain leaves the European Union (EU). Ireland has bilateral agreements with Britain which entitle the government to information on the UK’s nuclear programme. The UK will no longer be tied down by strict EU laws which underpin these agreements once it officially leaves the union. Documents released following a Freedom of Information request reveal high-ranking civil servants fear information exchanges will be under threat once Britain leaves the EU. Concerns were first raised two years ago in a risk assessment compiled by the Department of the Environment for the Taoiseach’s Office.
Irish Independent 31st July 2016 read more »