The deputy general of Álava, Ramiro González, has accused the Nuclear Safety Council (CSN) of secrecy regarding a possible resumption of the nuclear power plant in Garoña at a conference in Brussels. The plant, which is located in close distance to Álava, has ceased to operate in 2012 but the owners have now requested permission to resume activities. At the meeting, the deputy general of Álava referred to the Euratom directives of 2009 and 2014, which stipulate that EU member states should provide sufficient information to citizens on the regulation of nuclear safety. They also foresee that adequate opportunities must be provided for effective participation in the decision-making process relating to the licensing of nuclear facilities. He criticized that the citizens of Álava, who are most directly affected by the plant, have been deprived of any opportunity to participate in the decision-making process. He also considers this a breach of the Aarhus Convention, which guarantees access to information and participation in environmental matters.
