Examining the current states of nuclear power plants. Recommendations from the Niigata Prefecture Verification summary committee

In August 2017, the 'Three Committees for the Verification of Nuclear Accidents in Niigata Prefecture' were established, and in February 2018, the 'General Verification Committee' was set up to consolidate their findings and use them in discussions about the potential restart of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant. Although the verification reports from the committees were completed, the General Verification Committee held only two meetings before it was dissolved on March 31, 2023, due to a conflict between myself, the committee chair, and the governor. As a result, I was dismissed from my position. I believe it is my responsibility to clarify the entire sequence of events, explain the causes of the conflict, and emphasize the importance of local governance in nuclear power issues. (J.P.N.)