Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Opening Statement by Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA:

(Abridged)

Q&As

• The disposal of debris from the Great East Japan Earthquake

(Abridged)

REPORTER: The percentage of disposed debris from the Great East Japan Earthquake has not increased for some time. At this pace, some believe it may be difficult to achieve the mid-term target which has been set for the period up to March of this year. What is your view on this?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: This work is currently being led by the Ministry of the Environment. As we will definitely not catch up (with the target) unless all ministries and agencies make a collective effort, including the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, the Abe administration, which was launched on the 26th of last month, believe we need to pursue not the approach which was taken up to now, but make an all-out effort as the Government. This matter is of extreme importance to those in the affected areas, and we will make every effort to move this forward. I too personally believe that this has proceeded too slowly, and I intend to make stronger requests.

(Abridged)