Debate: Should We Go Nuclear

dublin | environment | event notice Wednesday September 19, 2007 12:30 by SPDC - Socialist Party Dublin City Branch info at socialistparty dot net 141 Thomas Street, Dublin 8 01 6772592

An evening of debate hosted by the Socialist Party

On 22 March this year, the Irish Congress of trade Unions issued a press statement criticising the government for not seriously considering nuclear energy as an option for providing the energy needs of the country over the next 20 years. The press statement said: "Over the next 20 years our population is forecast to grow to 5.5m. That has huge implications for energy supply. In that context we should not foreclose, or rule out one serious possible option, namely, nuclear power, especially given our high dependency on fossil fuels."

The press statement opened by calling "for a full and open debate on nuclear power, in the context of Ireland’s future energy needs."

The Dublin City branch of the Socialist Party has decided to offer a platform to ICTU for this important discussion, by inviting UNITE National Officer (AMICUS Section) and Chair of ICTU's Congress Energy Committee, Jerry Shanahan to debate with Ray McLoughlin, a member of the Socialist Party and the TEEU's National Executive Committee (speaking in a personal capacity) on the question "SHOULD WE GO NUCLEAR."

The issues surrounding the debate on energy are enormous and widespread, from the role of multi-nationals like Shell, Peak Oil, global warming and environmental sustainability, all illustrate the importance of this discussion. The interests of ordinary working class people are central to this debate and therefore the discussion cannot be limited to so-called energy experts, Green Party Ministers or those with a vested interest in the energy market. This debate must take place inside the workers movement.

Come along and participate in the discussion

Thursday 27 September 7.30pm in Wynns Hotel, Abbey Street.

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