The Czech Senate is spearheading efforts to revive a crucial condition that necessitates the agreement of both chambers of Parliament for the establishment of a deep geological repository for radioactive waste. Initially proposed by the government, this condition was later annulled by the Chamber of Deputies. Consequently, the Deputies now face the task of revisiting the legislation, reflecting the intricacies and divergent perspectives on the repository issue.

In a noteworthy move on Wednesday, the Senate recommended that the government should not merely have the option but a mandatory obligation to provide compensations extending beyond the purview of the Atomic Act for municipalities where the repository is slated to be constructed. It is essential to underscore that the Senate firmly rejected the idea of granting veto rights to municipalities in this matter.

Senator Hana Žáková, representing the Mayors and Independents (STAN) party, defended the condition of parliamentary consent, asserting that it would contribute to rebuilding public trust in the government’s decisions regarding the construction of the repository. Industry and Trade Minister Jozef Síkela, also affiliated with STAN, maintained a neutral stance on the condition, although he expressed a preference for the adoption of the law without alterations. Minister Síkela highlighted that in mid-November, a substantial majority—167 out of 177 present deputies—had voted in favor of the Chamber’s version.

The Senate’s version of the law, endorsed by 47 out of 76 members of the upper parliamentary chamber, dictates that the government must determine compensations for municipalities affected by the repository. The negotiation of the compensation amount and terms would be conducted with the municipalities, and the approval of both parliamentary chambers would be a prerequisite for these compensations. In contrast, the Chamber of Deputies’ version only contemplates the possibility of the government establishing compensations, leaving room for differences in the final legislation. The ongoing legislative discourse underscores the complex interplay of interests and perspectives surrounding the establishment of the radioactive waste repository in the Czech Republic.

Article by Prague Forum