DRAFT
67
environmental protection, safety, and emergency preparedfess, signs the
recommendation for transfer of these two EP programs to DP] and another EP
program, radiological surveys and certification, to the assistant
seqretary for nuclear
energy. Among the arguments cited against the Marshall Islands pfogram transfer in
an unsigned attachment to Vaughan’s 29 October memorandum fo DOESecretary
Edwards are: DP has limited headquarters medical, health, or enyronmental expert
staff to direct the program, and “historically, EP has retained management of the
program because of its perceived expertise." In that same documé€nt proponents of
that transfer contend that the Marshall Islands program is primarily operational and
related to past weapon testing, a major DP activity; that NV manages the logistical
support in the Pacific for DP; and that EP handling represents a
oversight role.*””
Nov 82
cqnflict with the EP
MEDICAL
RADIATION
Islands That Were Surveyed in 1978) to the Marshallese to explainjthe results of the
1978 measurements for Rongelap, Utirik, Taka, Rongerik, Ailingiqae, Likiep, Ailuk,
Jemo, Mejit, Wotho, and Ujelang Atolls. According to Tommy
McCraw, the 400
mRem/yr exposure rate "on page 39” appears to be an erroneous vaue not supported
by whole-body monitoring. McCraw says that "the value should
mRem/year,” provided the food restriction remains effective.*”
less than 100
8-9 Dec 82
CONTRACTOR
MEDICAL
RADIATION
DOE representatives and contractors from the PNL and|LLNt meet with
Marshall Islanders at Majuro to explain the 1978 radiological shrvey. NoT. T.
representative attends. Roger Ray serves as the DOE spokesnjan, and Tommy
McCraw attends as an observer. The Marshallese ask why only ceftain islands were
included in the survey; which areas are safe with respect to health; and how the
radiation affects people’s health. According to McCraw, the Marshaflese/English book
was "well received,” and Ray was effective in responding to the purpose and findings
of the survey. Nevertheless, McCraw is upset because "some of tke Marshallese at
the meeting appeared surprised, confused, and skeptical of Roger’ statements that
food from Enjebi Island and from the northern islands at Rongelab could be eaten
with certain qualifications, and that the people should make up their own judgments
based upon cancerrisk estimates and upon the need for food." McCaw regards Ray’s
advice as incompatible with the DOE policy of adhering to federal [and international
radiation protection standards and giving DOE-coordinated radiol@gical advice and
assistance to the DOI and the T.T. high commissioner. According McCraw, Ray’s
Statements on the consumption of Enjebi and northern islandg food were not
coordinated within the DOE. McCraw considers this episode a gontinuationof a
difference of opinion between DOE headquarters safety staff and NV that started
when NV becameinvolved in the Enewetak cleanup.‘
IC