Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

• Restarting operations at nuclear power stations (Oi Nuclear Power Station)

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I would like to ask a question related to the restarting of operations at nuclear power stations. Today, following this press conference, there will again be a meeting among the four ministers. Is my understanding correct that today, the ministers will be confirming the start of the phase of seeking the understanding of the local communities (for restarting operations at Oi Nuclear Power Station)? Also, the meeting among the four ministers on the restarting of operations has been convened successively. I get the impression that this is all being done in a great hurry. What is the reason for this?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: We have been dealing this with the intention of taking a very careful and cautious approach. There has been a buildup of efforts since July of last year. Today, while being aware that there are still a variety of opinions out there and while fully accepting these opinions, a comprehensive discussion will take place at the meeting among the four ministers on safety or necessity, without identifying a cut-off date for reaching a conclusion. This is what will be happening today.