Japan will continue using nuclear power to fill in its energy needs Prime Minister Naoto Kan announced on Wednesday in response to questions on the energy policy of the country as it remains grappling with the nuclear disaster at the Fukushima Prefecture.
In a press conference, the Prime Minister said the government will put up an oversight committee of Japan's energy industry. "The investigation commission on the accident, which will start meeting soon, should discuss the way Japan administers its nuclear policies," Mr Kan said, adding that he hoped "to lay a basic direction for a thorough reform."
But Mr Kan backed the principle of nuclear power, telling reporters: "If we come up with new ways to use atomic power more safely... we will naturally utilise atomic power further. In the first place a thorough review is needed. Everything should start from there." Mr Kan announced that reactors currently suspended for routine check-ups across the nation would be allowed to resume operations if they are deemed safe.
Compensation for orphans
The nation continues with the rehabilitation of areas devastated by the March 11 quake. In Miyagi Prefecture, the local government will give out some 500,000 yen or US$7,500 to each child whose parents perished during the quake and the tsunami.
The money was gathered from donations obtained by the prefectural government. It will also 100,000 yen each to about 900 people suffering from serious physical impediments due to the disaster, including those who lost their eyesight or require full-time nursing care.
