NOTABLE EVENTS 2023 the Institute for Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN) and on its Advisory Committees of Experts (GPEs), more particularly that devoted to the topic of radioactive waste (GPD). This technical review, the duration of which is estimated at about three years, is built around the assessment of three topics: the basic data adopted for the Cigéo safety assessment, notably regarding the choice of the site, the safety of the surface and underground installations during the operational phase, and the long-term safety after closure. Following the technical review, ASN will issue an opinion on the application submitted by Andra, as stipulated by Article L. 542-10-1 of the Environment Code. At the same time, the National Review Board (CNE2) will submit an opinion on the scientific underpinnings of the file as compared with the state of the art. The duration of the entire authorisation process is estimated at about five years. Apart from the technical review phase, it includes a consultation phase (local authorities, Environmental Authority, etc.), as well as a public inquiry, prior to starting the drafting of any decree to finalise the procedure. In order to address society’s strong desire to take part in the Cigéo project, and consistently with the measures stipulated in this respect by the 5th PNGMDR, ASN is implementing an unprecedented system of consultation and discussion around the technical review process. Various stakeholders (about twenty organisations, including Local Information Committees (CLIs), the National Association of Local Information Committees and Commissions (Anccli), and environmental protection associations) were thus consulted as part of IRSN’s review of the Cigéo creation authorisation application, with the aim of identifying their expectations and concerns as related to nuclear safety and radiation protection, so that they could be taken into account when framing the assessment of the file. Following this exercise, the IRSN referral project was modified, for example, to incorporate aspects related to addressing climate change issues. To guarantee the continuity of participation by society throughout the technical review process, consultation measures will also be taken when drafting the GPE referrals on the three previously mentioned topics, and the public will be regularly informed, notably after each meeting of these GPEs, the first of which is scheduled for April 2024. This information, which is structured consistently with the referrals, will provide answers to the expectations and questions incorporated therein. n HLW waste packages will be emplaced in vaults about a hundred metres long and about 70 cm in diameter, with a metal liner. ILW-LL waste packages will be emplaced in horizontal disposal vaults a few hundred metres long and a few tens of metres in diameter. Cigéo project disposal vaults ASN visit during the excavation of the network of drifts in the Bure underground laboratory. ASN Report on the state of nuclear safety and radiation protection in France in 2023 19
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