An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts finished an 11-day mission on Wednesday to assess the regulatory framework for nuclear and radiation safety in the Greek Cypriot administration, with some suggestions for further development.
The Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) team said that the Greek Cypriot administration has a competent radiation safety regulatory body that works for the continuous improvement of safety, but noted that a legal framework review and other steps would further enhance safety.
The Greek Cypriot administration uses radioactive sources in medical and other fields, but does not operate any nuclear power reactors or research reactors, according to the IAEA.
The team of experts made recommendations and suggestions to the regulatory body and the administration to further enhance regulatory framework and functions in line with IAEA safety standards.
The team recognized that “the Ministry for Labor, Welfare and Social Insurance (MLWSI) has developed regulations and regulatory requirements to carry out its duties in line with IAEA safety standards and international best practices, and that it continues to update regulatory requirements.�
IRRS missions are designed to strengthen the effectiveness of the national regulatory infrastructure for nuclear and radiation safety, while recognizing the responsibility of each state to ensure safety.
The mission provided recommendations and suggestions for improvements, proposing that "the Government should review the legal framework to ensure compliance with IAEA safety standards. The Government should provide Radiation Inspection and Control Services (RICS) with adequate human and financial resources, and strengthen its powers and responsibilities in the licensing decision-making process."
By Huseyin Erdogan
Anadolu Agency
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