Explosions at the Akkuyu nuclear power plant construction site

Question for written answer  E-000364/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
Demetris Papadakis (S&D)

The recent explosions at the Akkuyu nuclear power plant construction site in Turkey are a reminder that the site is a nuclear bomb for the environment. The construction of a nuclear reactor in Akkuyu poses a considerable risk to the environment, as the site selected for construction of the plant has a history of major earthquakes and subsequent disasters.

The plant’s proximity to Cyprus — only 90 km off the coast of Kyrenia once it becomes operational — and the risks of a nuclear accident affecting an EU Member State, are both areas of concern.

The construction site poses a threat not only to the environment but also to the health and safety of everyone residing in the South-East Mediterranean and nearby.

Global concern has increased following the lack of transparency regarding the causes of the recent explosion and the actual number of potential casualties and other damage.

In the light of this:

• 1.What action will the Commission take to stop the construction of a nuclear plant by an EU candidate country in a particularly seismic region which poses enormous risks?
• 2.What are the findings of the technical meetings that have taken place so far concerning the safety of the project?