The ESB has plans for an atomic power station which would be another means to generate electricity.
The Electricity Supply Board (ESB) has drawn up plans and specifications for a nucelar power plant in Ireland. Engineers have already been sent on training courses to Britain, Germany and the United States, where similar power stations are already in operation.
Seán Coakley, ESB, outlines the plans and standards for operation and safety.
The atomic power station itself is to be operated by the ESB.
The ESB is planning to have the station up and running by 1978. Mr Coakley believes that an atomic station will be more economical to run than a conventional station. Atomic energy also relieves Ireland of its dependence on oil. The atomic station will run alongside existing stations. The location for the new station has yet to be decided. It is envisaged that the new station will provide employment for up to a thousand people during construction and continued employment for around 200 people.
Wherever it goes, it will be a valuable asset.
Mr Coakley acknowledges that there are dangers from the raw materials used at atomic power stations but every precaution is being made to keep them safe.
It is estimated that the station will cost in the region of £50 million to construct.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 24 January 1971. The reporter is John Howard.
