Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

(Abridged)

REPORTER: Today marks one-and-a-half years since the Great East Japan Earthquake. Could you provide us with your evaluation of the status of reconstruction in the disaster-affected regions?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY FUJIMURA: Today is September 11, which marks the passage of one-and-a-half years since the Great East Japan Earthquake of March 11, 2011. Following the establishment of the Reconstruction Agency in February this year, the Government has continued to cooperate with local governments in providing assistance for the daily lives of the people affected by the disaster and for the reconstruction of infrastructure. In terms of concrete examples, Special Zones for Reconstruction and reconstruction grants have been established and approved. Other efforts that have been implemented include the recovery of infrastructure based on project plans and schedules, the rebuilding of housing, the promotion of relocation to higher ground, and the formulation of the Basic Policy for the Reconstruction and Rebirth of Fukushima based on the Bill on Special Measures for Fukushima Reconstruction and Revitalization. Based on such efforts it is my recognition that compared to immediate aftermath of the disaster in March last year, efforts relating to recovery and reconstruction are considerably advanced and developed. Currently we are moving from the recovery stage towards full-fledged reconstruction efforts; however, there have also been observations that the progress is lacking speed and that assistance is not reaching the people who require it. The Government seeks to further accelerate efforts towards reconstruction, ensuring that all the structures in place work at full capacity, including the Special Zones for Reconstruction, systems such as reconstruction grants, disaster-related budgetary allocation, as well as the Reconstruction Agency and local response offices. I believe that a press sheet has been distributed to you all concerning the visit by the Prime Minister to the Reconstruction Agency to observe operations in action and offer his encouragement on the one-and-a-half year anniversary of the disaster.

(Abridged)