30th Anniversary of the Radiation Effects Research Foundation Commemorating Event held in Hiroshima and Nagasaki(8/11/2005) (Hiroshima, Radiation Effects Research Foundation Union)

Events to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the Radiation Effects Research Foundation were held in Hiroshima and Nagasaki on November 8 and 11 respectively.

　Before the Commemoration Ceremony, the director of the Radiation Effects Research Foundation, Mr. Okubo, government officials from the US and Japan as well as victims of radiation from the nuclear bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, planted a tree. This symbolized the hope and determination of everyone at the Radiation Effects Research Foundation to protect humankind from the devastating effects of radiation and continue research that will contribute to promoting the health of radiation victims and people all over the world.

　After atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945 and on Nagasaki on August 9, Committees were set up to study the long-term effects of radiation on health (1947 in Hiroshima, 1948 in Nagasaki). At the time the committees were established, they were run by the United States, but in April 1975, Radiation Effects Research Foundation was established as a joint foundation between the US and Japan with the mission to examine the effects of radiation on human beings through investigating the health of victims of a-bomb radiation.

　The president of Jichiro, Okabe Kenji was present at the commemoration ceremony, representing Jichiro Central Headquarters. Radiation victims who had cooperated with the research programme were also invited to the ceremony.

　In the keynote address, the director, Mr. Okubo, commented that “the Radiation Effects Research Foundation began in the tragic aftermath of the a-bombs, but through the understanding and cooperation of the radiation victims, we have been able to gain vast knowledge and data which is being used for the betterment of human health.” Mr. Okubo expressed his utmost gratitude to the radiation victims for their cooperation over the years.

　The next speaker was Mr. Tsuboi, the director of the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Casualty Council. “As one of the victims of radiation myself, I recognize the importance of the research being carried out by the Radiation Effects Research Foundation in terms of making clear the terrible effects of radiation. I hope that this Institute can incorporate the strong desire for nuclear disarmament felt by a-bomb victims and continue to contribute to the betterment of humankind,” he commented.

Radiation Effects Research Foundation and Jichiro Central Headquarters Joint Project

　The Radiation Effects Research Foundation must deal with several serious issues such as budget weaknesses stemming from the US/Japan joint nature of the foundation and the aging of radiation victims as the 60th anniversary of the a-bomb has passed. Jichiro recognises the social significance of the Radiation Effects Research Foundation and has established a committee to support the Radiation Effects Research Foundation in the Jichiro Central Headquarters. Jichiro, along with the Institute union, is also involved in negotiations with the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and with the American Embassy.

　At the reception after the ceremony, Jichiro President Okabe commented: “Listening to today’s speeches, I was once again reminded of the importance of the Radiation Research Institute and that Jichiro’s policy of supporting it has been on-track. The Radiation Effects Research Foundation has made a valuable contribution to peace and the future of humankind.”