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21/09/2004
UK cash injection to 'improve' work of nuclear inspectorate
International efforts to combat the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons have been boosted today following the UK's decision to inject £1.1 million into the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) coffers.
The funding will be used to help re-engineer a comprehensive computer-based management support system, known as the IAEA Safeguards Information System (ISIS). It is hoped that the new system will "significantly improve" the efficiency and effectiveness of the IAEA's safeguards activities.
DTI Minister Nigel Griffiths said: "Countering the proliferation of nuclear weapons is a key priority for the government and international community. The IAEA has a central role in this area, in particular through continued effective and efficient safeguards work. This is why the ISIS re-engineering project is so important."
He added: "I very much hope that this donation will encourage other countries to come forward with funding to support the Agency's work in this area."
The operation of large parts of the current ISIS software infrastructure has become increasingly expensive as the system is based on outdated technology from the late 1970s.
The IAEA has said that re-engineering ISIS would ensure that its "safeguards activities are carried out in the most effective and efficient manner, through the introduction of new hardware and newly developed core applications".
To date, only the UK and the US has provided funding for the project. The UK's contribution will enable the IAEA to engage contractors for the project.
(gmcg/mb)
The funding will be used to help re-engineer a comprehensive computer-based management support system, known as the IAEA Safeguards Information System (ISIS). It is hoped that the new system will "significantly improve" the efficiency and effectiveness of the IAEA's safeguards activities.
DTI Minister Nigel Griffiths said: "Countering the proliferation of nuclear weapons is a key priority for the government and international community. The IAEA has a central role in this area, in particular through continued effective and efficient safeguards work. This is why the ISIS re-engineering project is so important."
He added: "I very much hope that this donation will encourage other countries to come forward with funding to support the Agency's work in this area."
The operation of large parts of the current ISIS software infrastructure has become increasingly expensive as the system is based on outdated technology from the late 1970s.
The IAEA has said that re-engineering ISIS would ensure that its "safeguards activities are carried out in the most effective and efficient manner, through the introduction of new hardware and newly developed core applications".
To date, only the UK and the US has provided funding for the project. The UK's contribution will enable the IAEA to engage contractors for the project.
(gmcg/mb)
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