OSCE Mission to Moldova facilitates removal of ionized radiation sources from Transdniestria

On 28 and 29 April 2015, the OSCE Mission to Moldova facilitated the removal of about 200 ionized radiation sources from five factories and facilities in Transdniestria.

“This activity continues to demonstrate that good co-operation between the authorities on both sides of the river contributes greatly to reduce potential risks faced by the local population” said Ambassador Michael Scanlan, the Head of the OSCE Mission to Moldova.

Last Thursday, in Ribnita, 118 ionized radiation sources and some radioactive waste were removed from the Moldovan Metallurgic Plant. The next day, in Tiraspol, hazardous materials were removed from the Center of Hygiene and Epidemiology, the Moldavizolit Plant, the Tirstroimechanics Plant and the Tiraspol Transgaz Company. Prior to disposal in accordance with international regulations, the radioactive material will be stored in safe facilities.

The OSCE Mission to Moldova funded the removal and worked with the authorities in Chisinau and Tiraspol to reach an agreement on the terms of removal and the disposal of the hazardous materials, and conducted  the requisite monitoring as the project was implemented.

This project is part of the ongoing work by the OSCE Mission to Moldova to build confidence between people and communities on both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River. In 2012 and 2013, the OSCE Mission to Moldova already supported the removal of more than 1000 radioactive sources and industrial waste from various factories in Tiraspol, Bender and Ribnita.