VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) mission has concluded that Malta should strengthen key aspects of its radiation safety regulatory framework while recognising several areas of strong performance.
The Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) mission, carried out at the request of the Maltese Government, took place between 24 May and 3 June and was hosted by the Commission for the Protection from Ionising and Non-Ionising Radiation (RPC).
The review was conducted by six international experts and two IAEA staff members, who assessed Malta’s regulatory system against international safety standards.
Malta uses radiation sources in healthcare, industry and other sectors but does not operate nuclear power plants or research reactors. The RPC serves as the national authority responsible for overseeing radiation safety and protecting the public.
During the 11-day mission, the team met government officials, RPC board members and regulators, and observed inspections at the Sir Anthony Mamo Oncology Centre and the Centralised Radioactive Waste Storage Facility.
Mission leader Elefteria Carinou said the review provided an opportunity to assess Malta’s framework against international standards and exchange good practices that help strengthen national systems.
The team praised the close cooperation between the RPC and Government, the multidisciplinary composition of the RPC board, and the authority’s comprehensive criteria for recognising radiation protection experts.
However, the review identified the need for a national policy and strategy to ensure a resilient regulatory infrastructure that reflects current and future uses of radiation sources.
Among its recommendations, the mission urged the Government to safeguard the RPC’s independence, strengthen staffing and competence development, and maintain separate management of the radioactive waste storage facility.
The final IRRS report, containing detailed recommendations and suggestions, will be submitted to the Maltese Government in the coming months.
– Photo IPA Agency –
(ITALPRESS).
