Temelin nuclear power plant is not, in itself, very important. We believe, however, that with its help we will conclude other deals in the field of nuclear energy in Eastern Europe. " - Nathaniel Woodson, general director of the energy division of the Westinghouse Corporation.

Recently Temelin has been surrounded by renewed debate, both domestically and internationally. The opposition party (CSSD) leader and Chair of the House, Milos Zeman, has condemned the plant saying Temelin is "a bad investment" and Zeman is also pushing for a local public referendum to decide the plant's fate.

Some ministers in the Czech House have stated that they will come down to join the protest,(expect to see these politicans at the Blockade Opening Ceremony on Saturday, July 6 at 16:00 in front of the plant). This occurs on the heals of inflammatory statements made by CEZ (the Czech electric utility) officials, who claim that protest organizers have invited violent anarchists from Germany to take part in the blockade.

In addition, CEZ officials have dedicated themselves to preventing any disruption of normal plant activities. Protest organizers deny what they call CEZ's "black publicity campaign" and will go forward with the action as planned.

As Temelin devours most available energy development funds in the Czech Republic, noxious coal firing stations still operate, awaiting money for improvements which will reduce sulphate and other particulate emissions.

If given to improve energy efficiency, these recourses would not only reduce air pollution but would eliminate the stated need for nuclear power by retaining useable energy. In addition, Temelin, which is planned as an untested hybrid of an old Russian design and current Western technology, would not be licensed in any Western countries as it does not meet their reactor safety standards.

The Temelin web site address is www. ecn. cz/temelin - the web site will be updated many times daily, and includes print quality photos, reports from the blockade and important quotes and details.

Temelin Nuclear Power Plant is located near the village of Temelin in Southern Czech Republic, 25 km from Ceske Budejovice. If you would like more information about alternative energy contact Hnuti Duha at +042 05 4221 0438.