Košice Technical University, TUKE, is involved in a new project researching the safe disposal of highly radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel. The X-Rock project focuses on geological barriers for a future deep geological repository and involves experts from Switzerland, Finland, the Czech Republic, Belgium and Japan.
The project has come under political scrutiny. In June, opposition Progressive Slovakia questioned its funding and the involvement of two private companies, and filed a criminal complaint. The party also pointed to project coordinator and TUKE vice-dean Samer Khouri, who has previously donated to Hlas-SD and Peter Pellegrini's presidential campaign and serves as an adviser to Deputy Education Minister Robert Zsembera. The Education Ministry has responded by filing a criminal complaint against PS MPs over alleged defamation and false accusations.
TUKE says the project was independently evaluated by experts from Slovakia and the Czech Republic, receiving 14.5 out of 15 points. The university and the Education Ministry reject claims of a lack of transparency, saying the use of funds will be monitored by the ministry and national and European audit bodies.
Source: TASR
