Nuclear power and security

Sir, – In a balanced and rational analysis of the potential role of nuclear power in Ireland's future, Jennifer O'Connell notes "two major concerns", the potential for an accident and the toxic waste generated (Opinion & Analysis, February 5th). I would suggest she may be missing the biggest threat of all.

It’s now less than a year since computer hackers paralysed and took control of our health service’s computer systems. The potential consequences of a comparable attack on a nuclear power plant are at least nightmarish, and probably existential. The ransoms demanded would have to be paid, irrespective of the amount. These realities would be self-evident to those who coordinate such attacks. This alone would make me very apprehensive about nuclear power as a serious proposal, however compelling the science is. – Yours, etc,

BRIAN O’BRIEN,

Kinsale,

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Co Cork.