読売、毎日、朝日各社英字新聞の社説を学習研究
×
[PR]上記の広告は3ヶ月以上新規記事投稿のないブログに表示されています。新しい記事を書く事で広告が消えます。
2011/07/14
--The Asahi Shimbun, July 13
EDITORIAL/ Seeking a society without nuclear power generation: Japan must change course to create a
nuclear-free society
提言 原発ゼロ社会―いまこそ
This is the first of a five-part editorial series proposing ways for Japan to achieve a society that does not depend on nuclear power generation for its energy supply.
(日本が脱原発によりエネルギーを得るための朝日新聞５提言のうちの第一弾です。 trans. by srachai)
* * *
A major shift in Japan's energy policy is necessary to wean our society off nuclear power generation as soon as possible.
政策の大転換を 日本のエネルギー政策を大転換し、原子力発電に頼らない社会を早く実現しなければならない。
Many people believe so, considering there is no end in sight to the disaster at the Fukushima No. 1 plant that started in March.
いまだに収束が見えない福島第一原発の事故を前に、多くの国民もそう思っている。
A recent Asahi Shimbun survey found 77 percent of respondents in favor of a phased decommissioning of nuclear power plants.
朝日新聞の世論調査では、段階的廃止への賛成が７７％にのぼった。
The Fukushima meltdowns have taught us the fearsome power of nuclear energy that cannot be shut down at will. なにしろ「止めたくても止められない」という原子力の恐ろしさを思い知った。
Japan sits on a veritable "nest" of earthquakes, and experts say we have entered a period of increased seismic activity.
しかも地震の巣・日本列島の上にあり、地震が活動期に入ったといわれるのだ。
If there is another nuclear accident, our society may not recover.
再び事故を起こしたら、日本社会は立ち行かなくなってしまう。
That is why we are proposing a "zero nuclear power generation society" as our long-term target.
そこで、「原発ゼロ社会」を将来目標に定めるよう提言したい。
First, we need to set a timeline.
（まず、工程表の設定だ trans. by srachai）
その方策については、社説特集をオピニオン面に掲載したので、お読みいただきたい。
脱原発を進めるポイントは、時間軸をもつことである。
We have so far relied on nuclear energy for nearly 30 percent of our power needs.
これまで電力の３割近くを原発に頼ってきた。
We cannot slash it to zero right now, as the resultant power shortage will seriously affect our daily lives and economic activities.
ここで一気にゼロとすれば電力不足となり、生活や経済活動が大きな打撃を受けるだろう。
It is obviously much more realistic to gradually reduce our dependence on nuclear power generation--an approach that should get us faster to the target over the long run.
過度に無理せず着実に減らしていく方が現実的であり、結局は近道にもなるはずだ。
It is generally understood that the life expectancy of nuclear reactors is 40 years.
原発の寿命は４０年がひとつの目安とされている。
If we stop building new reactors and scrap existing reactors over the next 40 years, all reactors will be gone by 2050.
もう新たな原子炉は建設せずに４０年で順に止めていくと、２０５０年にはゼロになる。
This would be too far down the road, but we could make it happen sooner with stepped-up efforts to develop and introduce alternative energy sources and save electricity.
これでは遅すぎるが、代替電源の開発・導入に力を入れ、節電にも努めれば、ゼロの日をそれだけ早めることができる。
Our best hope lies in renewable energy, such as solar and wind.
代替電源の希望の星は、風力や太陽光を始めとする自然エネルギーだ。
The scenario The Asahi Shimbun has drawn is for the government to switch its energy policy to greater reliance on renewable energy, radically overhaul the current system of power companies monopolizing regional operations, and deregulate the power industry.
これを増やす方向へエネルギー政策を転換し、電力会社による地域独占体制を抜本的に改めて自由化を進める。それが社説で描いたシナリオである。
The government has so far attached the foremost priority to bolstering nuclear power generation, taking both overt and covert steps to diminish the worth of renewable energy.
これまでは、原発増強を最優先させ、自然エネルギーを陰に陽に抑制してきた。
Since renewable energy sources are scattered around the nation, the power supply will have to remain limited within the immediate areas, meaning market deregulation is a must for this idea to be realized.
自然エネルギー源は各地に分散していて地域密着の発電になるので、自由化による新規参入が欠かせない。
Adopting an adjustable service charge structure, determined by supply and demand, should motivate users to save energy.
需給に応じて変動する電気料金にすれば、節電を促すことにも役立つ。
One drawback, however, is that the costs are still prohibitive.
ただし、まだまだコストが高い。
Any sudden switch to renewable energy will cause utility charges to soar, hurting businesses and people's bank accounts.
急激に導入すれば電気料金を押し上げ、暮らしや経済活動の重荷になる。
What would be an acceptable hike in utility charges?
どのていどの値上げなら受け入れ可能か。
It will be vital to weigh this "sacrifice" against the danger of nuclear power generation while trying to obtain a public consensus and determining the speed at which nuclear reactors should be phased out.
危険な原発を減らすことと天秤（てんびん）にかけ、国民的な合意をつくりつつ廃炉のテンポを決めていくことが大切だ。
But since this will be a time-consuming process, we would have to rely more on natural gas and other fuels for thermal power generation.
また、それまでには時間がかかるので、当面は天然ガスなどの火力発電を強化せざるをえない。
Such fuels emit carbon dioxide, contributing to global warming.
二酸化炭素を出し、地球温暖化の防止にはマイナスに働くが、
But for our long-term objective of weaning ourselves off nuclear power generation, we will have to keep working on reducing our carbon footprint while developing renewable energy and learning to consume less electricity.
自然エネルギーの開発と省エネを進めていき、長期的には脱原発と両立させねばならない。
In fact, this is Japan's responsibility to the international community.
それが日本の国際的な責任でもある。
Through all these efforts, when can Japan expect to be completely nuclear-free?
以上の努力を重ねていって、ゼロにできるのはいつか。
Since technological developments and global economic circumstances could throw us off, it is difficult to make accurate predictions.
技術の発展や世界の経済情勢に左右され見通すのは難しいが、
But 20 to 30 years is reasonable.
２０～３０年後がめどになろう。
So why not set our sights for 20 years from now, commit to this target and review our progress every few years?
そこで、たとえば「２０年後にゼロ」という目標を思い切って掲げ、全力で取り組んでいって、数年ごとに計画を見直すことにしたらどうだろうか。
Of Japan's 54 nuclear reactors, 35 are currently idle, and five others will be shut down by August for inspections. If we all do our best to conserve energy this summer so power use falls below the projected peak demand, we would prove that we don't need all of our nuclear power plants.
現在は、５４基ある原発のうち３５基がすでに休止しており、８月までにさらに５基が検査で止まる。この状態であっても、私たち一人ひとりの節電努力でこの夏の需要最盛期を乗り切れたなら、かなりの原発はなくても大丈夫であることを証明したことになる。
Nuclear power generation will decrease drastically if safety is the absolute condition for using nuclear energy, and plants can operate only if they are needed from the standpoint of supply and demand.
今後は安全第一で原発を選び、需給から見て必要なものしか稼働させなければ、原発はすぐ大幅に減る。
And once we are on track for the eventual decommissioning of all reactors, the public will surely be more receptive to restarting those that are really needed.
ゼロへの道を歩み出すなら、再稼働へ国民の理解も得やすくなるに違いない。
Japan's post-World War II nuclear research began under the slogan of "peaceful utilization of nuclear energy." 戦後の原子力研究は「平和利用」を合言葉に出発した。
But when nuclear power generation became national policy, promoted together by power companies which have regional monopolies, anyone who argued against nuclear power generation was regarded as a "public enemy."
しかし、原発が国策になり、地域独占の電力会社と一体になって動き始めると、反対論を敵視して
There was nothing to brake the system.
ブレーキが利かなくなった。
Many citizens became accustomed to using electricity without really thinking about where it came from.
多くの国民も電力の源についてとくに考えずに、好きなだけ電気を使う生活を楽しんできた。
Switching from nuclear energy to renewable energy will mean choosing a decentralized society where the people will have their say on the nation's energy policy, rather than leaving the decision to authorities.
原発から脱し分散型の電源を選ぶことは、エネルギー政策をお任せ型から参加型へ転換し、分権的な社会をめざすことにつながる。
This should also prompt Japan's transition into a sustainable society fit for the 21st century.
それは、２１世紀型の持続可能な社会を築くことにも通じる。
This and other editorials in our special series only provide sketches of a "zero nuclear power generation society" we envision.
きょうの社説特集は「原発ゼロ社会」へ向けたデッサンにすぎない。
What our country needs is to deepen public discourse on the subject and quickly put ideas into action wherever possible.
必要なのは国民的に議論を深めながら、やれることから早く実行へ移していくことである。
BY YOSHINORI ONOKI DIRECTOR OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD
（論説主幹 大軒由敬）
--The Asahi Shimbun, July 13
EDITORIAL/ Seeking a society without nuclear power generation: Japan must change course to create a
nuclear-free society
提言 原発ゼロ社会―いまこそ
This is the first of a five-part editorial series proposing ways for Japan to achieve a society that does not depend on nuclear power generation for its energy supply.
(日本が脱原発によりエネルギーを得るための朝日新聞５提言のうちの第一弾です。 trans. by srachai)
* * *
A major shift in Japan's energy policy is necessary to wean our society off nuclear power generation as soon as possible.
政策の大転換を 日本のエネルギー政策を大転換し、原子力発電に頼らない社会を早く実現しなければならない。
Many people believe so, considering there is no end in sight to the disaster at the Fukushima No. 1 plant that started in March.
いまだに収束が見えない福島第一原発の事故を前に、多くの国民もそう思っている。
A recent Asahi Shimbun survey found 77 percent of respondents in favor of a phased decommissioning of nuclear power plants.
朝日新聞の世論調査では、段階的廃止への賛成が７７％にのぼった。
The Fukushima meltdowns have taught us the fearsome power of nuclear energy that cannot be shut down at will. なにしろ「止めたくても止められない」という原子力の恐ろしさを思い知った。
Japan sits on a veritable "nest" of earthquakes, and experts say we have entered a period of increased seismic activity.
しかも地震の巣・日本列島の上にあり、地震が活動期に入ったといわれるのだ。
If there is another nuclear accident, our society may not recover.
再び事故を起こしたら、日本社会は立ち行かなくなってしまう。
That is why we are proposing a "zero nuclear power generation society" as our long-term target.
そこで、「原発ゼロ社会」を将来目標に定めるよう提言したい。
First, we need to set a timeline.
（まず、工程表の設定だ trans. by srachai）
その方策については、社説特集をオピニオン面に掲載したので、お読みいただきたい。
脱原発を進めるポイントは、時間軸をもつことである。
We have so far relied on nuclear energy for nearly 30 percent of our power needs.
これまで電力の３割近くを原発に頼ってきた。
We cannot slash it to zero right now, as the resultant power shortage will seriously affect our daily lives and economic activities.
ここで一気にゼロとすれば電力不足となり、生活や経済活動が大きな打撃を受けるだろう。
It is obviously much more realistic to gradually reduce our dependence on nuclear power generation--an approach that should get us faster to the target over the long run.
過度に無理せず着実に減らしていく方が現実的であり、結局は近道にもなるはずだ。
It is generally understood that the life expectancy of nuclear reactors is 40 years.
原発の寿命は４０年がひとつの目安とされている。
If we stop building new reactors and scrap existing reactors over the next 40 years, all reactors will be gone by 2050.
もう新たな原子炉は建設せずに４０年で順に止めていくと、２０５０年にはゼロになる。
This would be too far down the road, but we could make it happen sooner with stepped-up efforts to develop and introduce alternative energy sources and save electricity.
これでは遅すぎるが、代替電源の開発・導入に力を入れ、節電にも努めれば、ゼロの日をそれだけ早めることができる。
Our best hope lies in renewable energy, such as solar and wind.
代替電源の希望の星は、風力や太陽光を始めとする自然エネルギーだ。
The scenario The Asahi Shimbun has drawn is for the government to switch its energy policy to greater reliance on renewable energy, radically overhaul the current system of power companies monopolizing regional operations, and deregulate the power industry.
これを増やす方向へエネルギー政策を転換し、電力会社による地域独占体制を抜本的に改めて自由化を進める。それが社説で描いたシナリオである。
The government has so far attached the foremost priority to bolstering nuclear power generation, taking both overt and covert steps to diminish the worth of renewable energy.
これまでは、原発増強を最優先させ、自然エネルギーを陰に陽に抑制してきた。
Since renewable energy sources are scattered around the nation, the power supply will have to remain limited within the immediate areas, meaning market deregulation is a must for this idea to be realized.
自然エネルギー源は各地に分散していて地域密着の発電になるので、自由化による新規参入が欠かせない。
Adopting an adjustable service charge structure, determined by supply and demand, should motivate users to save energy.
需給に応じて変動する電気料金にすれば、節電を促すことにも役立つ。
One drawback, however, is that the costs are still prohibitive.
ただし、まだまだコストが高い。
Any sudden switch to renewable energy will cause utility charges to soar, hurting businesses and people's bank accounts.
急激に導入すれば電気料金を押し上げ、暮らしや経済活動の重荷になる。
What would be an acceptable hike in utility charges?
どのていどの値上げなら受け入れ可能か。
It will be vital to weigh this "sacrifice" against the danger of nuclear power generation while trying to obtain a public consensus and determining the speed at which nuclear reactors should be phased out.
危険な原発を減らすことと天秤（てんびん）にかけ、国民的な合意をつくりつつ廃炉のテンポを決めていくことが大切だ。
But since this will be a time-consuming process, we would have to rely more on natural gas and other fuels for thermal power generation.
また、それまでには時間がかかるので、当面は天然ガスなどの火力発電を強化せざるをえない。
Such fuels emit carbon dioxide, contributing to global warming.
二酸化炭素を出し、地球温暖化の防止にはマイナスに働くが、
But for our long-term objective of weaning ourselves off nuclear power generation, we will have to keep working on reducing our carbon footprint while developing renewable energy and learning to consume less electricity.
自然エネルギーの開発と省エネを進めていき、長期的には脱原発と両立させねばならない。
In fact, this is Japan's responsibility to the international community.
それが日本の国際的な責任でもある。
Through all these efforts, when can Japan expect to be completely nuclear-free?
以上の努力を重ねていって、ゼロにできるのはいつか。
Since technological developments and global economic circumstances could throw us off, it is difficult to make accurate predictions.
技術の発展や世界の経済情勢に左右され見通すのは難しいが、
But 20 to 30 years is reasonable.
２０～３０年後がめどになろう。
So why not set our sights for 20 years from now, commit to this target and review our progress every few years?
そこで、たとえば「２０年後にゼロ」という目標を思い切って掲げ、全力で取り組んでいって、数年ごとに計画を見直すことにしたらどうだろうか。
Of Japan's 54 nuclear reactors, 35 are currently idle, and five others will be shut down by August for inspections. If we all do our best to conserve energy this summer so power use falls below the projected peak demand, we would prove that we don't need all of our nuclear power plants.
現在は、５４基ある原発のうち３５基がすでに休止しており、８月までにさらに５基が検査で止まる。この状態であっても、私たち一人ひとりの節電努力でこの夏の需要最盛期を乗り切れたなら、かなりの原発はなくても大丈夫であることを証明したことになる。
Nuclear power generation will decrease drastically if safety is the absolute condition for using nuclear energy, and plants can operate only if they are needed from the standpoint of supply and demand.
今後は安全第一で原発を選び、需給から見て必要なものしか稼働させなければ、原発はすぐ大幅に減る。
And once we are on track for the eventual decommissioning of all reactors, the public will surely be more receptive to restarting those that are really needed.
ゼロへの道を歩み出すなら、再稼働へ国民の理解も得やすくなるに違いない。
Japan's post-World War II nuclear research began under the slogan of "peaceful utilization of nuclear energy." 戦後の原子力研究は「平和利用」を合言葉に出発した。
But when nuclear power generation became national policy, promoted together by power companies which have regional monopolies, anyone who argued against nuclear power generation was regarded as a "public enemy."
しかし、原発が国策になり、地域独占の電力会社と一体になって動き始めると、反対論を敵視して
There was nothing to brake the system.
ブレーキが利かなくなった。
Many citizens became accustomed to using electricity without really thinking about where it came from.
多くの国民も電力の源についてとくに考えずに、好きなだけ電気を使う生活を楽しんできた。
Switching from nuclear energy to renewable energy will mean choosing a decentralized society where the people will have their say on the nation's energy policy, rather than leaving the decision to authorities.
原発から脱し分散型の電源を選ぶことは、エネルギー政策をお任せ型から参加型へ転換し、分権的な社会をめざすことにつながる。
This should also prompt Japan's transition into a sustainable society fit for the 21st century.
それは、２１世紀型の持続可能な社会を築くことにも通じる。
This and other editorials in our special series only provide sketches of a "zero nuclear power generation society" we envision.
きょうの社説特集は「原発ゼロ社会」へ向けたデッサンにすぎない。
What our country needs is to deepen public discourse on the subject and quickly put ideas into action wherever possible.
必要なのは国民的に議論を深めながら、やれることから早く実行へ移していくことである。
BY YOSHINORI ONOKI DIRECTOR OF THE EDITORIAL BOARD
（論説主幹 大軒由敬）
PR
(Mainichi Japan) July 14, 2011
PM's pursuit of nuclear power-free society should be commended, but details lacking
社説：「脱原発」表明 目指す方向は評価する
Prime Minister Naoto Kan announced at a news conference on July 13 that Japan will gradually decrease its reliance on nuclear power, with the ultimate goal of achieving a nuclear power plant-free society.
菅直人首相が１３日、記者会見し、原発への依存度を今後、計画的、段階的に下げていき、将来的には原発がなくてもやっていける社会の実現を目指すと表明した。
This represents a fundamental rethink of Japan's basic energy policy -- a change we essentially support and appreciate, as we have repeatedly asserted that Japan has no choice but to rely less on nuclear power.
国のエネルギー政策を抜本的に見直す「脱原発」表明である。
原発への依存を減らしていくこと、そして現実的にもそうした方向にならざるを得ないことは、私たちもこれまで何度も指摘してきたところだ。その考え方については基本的に支持し、評価したい。
What the prime minister said at the news conference, however, lacked specifics and raised numerous questions. しかし、首相のこの日の会見ではあまりに具体性が乏しい。
Kan said the government will aim to achieve a society without nuclear plants in the future, but when does "in the future" refer to?
将来とは一体、いつごろを考えているのか。
How will the government promote the development and introduction of substitute energy sources?
代替エネルギーをどうやって促進していくのか。
At the outset of the news conference, Kan said he would clarify his own ideas on the issue, but is it just his personal view or a policy adopted by the Cabinet or the entire Kan administration and ruling Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) legislators?
何より、菅首相が「私自身の考えを明確にしたい」と前置きしたように、これは内閣、あるいは民主党も含めた政権としての方針なのか、はなはだ心もとない。
As Kan is supposed to step down in the not too distant future, the Cabinet and the ruling coalition should quickly work out basic policy principles on his initiative.
いずれ遠くない時期に退陣するであろう首相だ。まず、政府・与党としての考えをまとめる作業を急いでもらいたい。
Differences have recently surfaced between Kan and Economy, Trade and Industry Banri Kaieda over whether to resume operations at two reactors at the Genkai Nuclear Power Plant in Saga Prefecture, which have been suspended for regular inspections.
菅内閣では九州電力玄海原発の再稼働問題をめぐり、首相と海江田万里経済産業相との間で「不一致」が問題になったばかりだ。
The prime minister apologized at the news conference, saying that a delay in issuing his instructions on the matter caused confusion.
一連の経過に対し、首相は会見で「私の指示が遅れ迷惑をかけた」と改めて陳謝したが、
Critics have raised doubts about how far a nuclear power-free policy has been discussed within the Cabinet.
今回の「脱原発」表明についても、早くも「どこまで閣内で議論をしているのか」という疑問の声が出ている。
Needless to say, it is indispensable to promote the policy on the initiative of the prime minister.
もちろん、首相のリーダーシップで進めていくことは必要だ。
However, considering the fact that even top officials of the DPJ executive office are distancing themselves from the prime minister and that attention is focused on the timing of Kan's resignation, it is feared that the pursuit of an end to nuclear power will end up being merely a Kan pet project.
しかし、民主党の執行部でさえ菅首相と距離を置き始め、絶えず退陣時期が焦点となっている現状を考えれば、個人的な意見の言いっぱなしで終わる心配がある。
In the meantime, Kan declared that despite the ongoing crisis at the tsunami-hit Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant, company and household power-saving efforts will be enough to carry Japan through the summer and winter without electricity shortages.
一方、菅首相は、企業や各家庭の節電の努力の結果、今年の夏から冬にかけては「十分に必要な電力供給は可能」と明言したが、
However, his declaration apparently failed to convince the public because he did not present any supporting figures.
もっと具体的な数字を挙げて説明しないと説得力を欠く。
Moreover, he said the government will promote the use of natural gas-fired thermal power stations and take other measures to make up for electric power shortages next summer and beyond.
さらに来年夏以降に関しては、天然ガスを使う火力発電所の活用などを挙げたが、
However, he only said he "would like to work out a specific plan" and stopped short of giving details.
「計画を立てていきたい」と語るだけだった。
Such an explanation will never convince the industrial world, where distrust of the Kan Cabinet is already growing over inconsistency in basic policy.
これでは、ただでさえ方針が二転三転する菅内閣に不信感を強めている産業界などは納得しない。
The important question is how the government will protect people's safety and livelihoods as well as business.
国民の安全と暮らし、経済活動をどう保っていくか。
It is certainly an important policy issue that members of the public should decide on.
確かに首相がいうように国民が選択すべき政治課題である。
The issue will emerge as a major point of contention in the next general election, and it is the DPJ's responsibility as the governing party to clearly show its basic thinking on the issue.
いずれは総選挙の大きな争点ともなるだろう。だからこそ、政権与党の責任として民主党の考えをまとめることが必要だ。
The prime minister again stopped short of clarifying the timing of his resignation during the news conference, but his failure to do so could give rise to groundless speculation that he is trying to use his anti-nuclear power policy to cling to power.
首相はこの日も退陣時期を明確にしなかったが、まさか「脱原発」を自らの延命の材料にするつもりはなかろう。
The issue should also be discussed during the DPJ presidential election to pick Kan's successor.
次期代表を決める代表選でもきちんと論議すべきである。
毎日新聞 2011年7月14日 2時31分
PM's pursuit of nuclear power-free society should be commended, but details lacking
社説：「脱原発」表明 目指す方向は評価する
Prime Minister Naoto Kan announced at a news conference on July 13 that Japan will gradually decrease its reliance on nuclear power, with the ultimate goal of achieving a nuclear power plant-free society.
菅直人首相が１３日、記者会見し、原発への依存度を今後、計画的、段階的に下げていき、将来的には原発がなくてもやっていける社会の実現を目指すと表明した。
This represents a fundamental rethink of Japan's basic energy policy -- a change we essentially support and appreciate, as we have repeatedly asserted that Japan has no choice but to rely less on nuclear power.
国のエネルギー政策を抜本的に見直す「脱原発」表明である。
原発への依存を減らしていくこと、そして現実的にもそうした方向にならざるを得ないことは、私たちもこれまで何度も指摘してきたところだ。その考え方については基本的に支持し、評価したい。
What the prime minister said at the news conference, however, lacked specifics and raised numerous questions. しかし、首相のこの日の会見ではあまりに具体性が乏しい。
Kan said the government will aim to achieve a society without nuclear plants in the future, but when does "in the future" refer to?
将来とは一体、いつごろを考えているのか。
How will the government promote the development and introduction of substitute energy sources?
代替エネルギーをどうやって促進していくのか。
At the outset of the news conference, Kan said he would clarify his own ideas on the issue, but is it just his personal view or a policy adopted by the Cabinet or the entire Kan administration and ruling Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) legislators?
何より、菅首相が「私自身の考えを明確にしたい」と前置きしたように、これは内閣、あるいは民主党も含めた政権としての方針なのか、はなはだ心もとない。
As Kan is supposed to step down in the not too distant future, the Cabinet and the ruling coalition should quickly work out basic policy principles on his initiative.
いずれ遠くない時期に退陣するであろう首相だ。まず、政府・与党としての考えをまとめる作業を急いでもらいたい。
Differences have recently surfaced between Kan and Economy, Trade and Industry Banri Kaieda over whether to resume operations at two reactors at the Genkai Nuclear Power Plant in Saga Prefecture, which have been suspended for regular inspections.
菅内閣では九州電力玄海原発の再稼働問題をめぐり、首相と海江田万里経済産業相との間で「不一致」が問題になったばかりだ。
The prime minister apologized at the news conference, saying that a delay in issuing his instructions on the matter caused confusion.
一連の経過に対し、首相は会見で「私の指示が遅れ迷惑をかけた」と改めて陳謝したが、
Critics have raised doubts about how far a nuclear power-free policy has been discussed within the Cabinet.
今回の「脱原発」表明についても、早くも「どこまで閣内で議論をしているのか」という疑問の声が出ている。
Needless to say, it is indispensable to promote the policy on the initiative of the prime minister.
もちろん、首相のリーダーシップで進めていくことは必要だ。
However, considering the fact that even top officials of the DPJ executive office are distancing themselves from the prime minister and that attention is focused on the timing of Kan's resignation, it is feared that the pursuit of an end to nuclear power will end up being merely a Kan pet project.
しかし、民主党の執行部でさえ菅首相と距離を置き始め、絶えず退陣時期が焦点となっている現状を考えれば、個人的な意見の言いっぱなしで終わる心配がある。
In the meantime, Kan declared that despite the ongoing crisis at the tsunami-hit Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant, company and household power-saving efforts will be enough to carry Japan through the summer and winter without electricity shortages.
一方、菅首相は、企業や各家庭の節電の努力の結果、今年の夏から冬にかけては「十分に必要な電力供給は可能」と明言したが、
However, his declaration apparently failed to convince the public because he did not present any supporting figures.
もっと具体的な数字を挙げて説明しないと説得力を欠く。
Moreover, he said the government will promote the use of natural gas-fired thermal power stations and take other measures to make up for electric power shortages next summer and beyond.
さらに来年夏以降に関しては、天然ガスを使う火力発電所の活用などを挙げたが、
However, he only said he "would like to work out a specific plan" and stopped short of giving details.
「計画を立てていきたい」と語るだけだった。
Such an explanation will never convince the industrial world, where distrust of the Kan Cabinet is already growing over inconsistency in basic policy.
これでは、ただでさえ方針が二転三転する菅内閣に不信感を強めている産業界などは納得しない。
The important question is how the government will protect people's safety and livelihoods as well as business.
国民の安全と暮らし、経済活動をどう保っていくか。
It is certainly an important policy issue that members of the public should decide on.
確かに首相がいうように国民が選択すべき政治課題である。
The issue will emerge as a major point of contention in the next general election, and it is the DPJ's responsibility as the governing party to clearly show its basic thinking on the issue.
いずれは総選挙の大きな争点ともなるだろう。だからこそ、政権与党の責任として民主党の考えをまとめることが必要だ。
The prime minister again stopped short of clarifying the timing of his resignation during the news conference, but his failure to do so could give rise to groundless speculation that he is trying to use his anti-nuclear power policy to cling to power.
首相はこの日も退陣時期を明確にしなかったが、まさか「脱原発」を自らの延命の材料にするつもりはなかろう。
The issue should also be discussed during the DPJ presidential election to pick Kan's successor.
次期代表を決める代表選でもきちんと論議すべきである。
毎日新聞 2011年7月14日 2時31分
(Mainichi Japan) July 13, 2011
Testing system urgently needed after discovery of radiation-tainted beef
社説：放射能汚染牛 全頭検査で安全守れ
Radioactive cesium exceeding the government's provisional upper limit has been detected in the meat of Japanese black cattle shipped out from a farm in Minamisoma, Fukushima Prefecture.
福島県南相馬市の畜産農家が出荷した黒毛和牛から、国の暫定規制値を超える放射性セシウムが検出された。
Some meat shipped out from the same farm has already been consumed.
同じ農家が出荷した別の牛の肉は、一部が既に消費されていた。
It is said the meat does not pose a health threat unless it is consumed in large quantities on an ongoing basis, but the very fact that meat containing an excessive level of radiation has slipped into the market represents a failure on behalf of the Fukushima Prefectural Government, which is in charge of testing.
継続的に大量摂取しなければ健康に影響はないというが、規制値を超える食肉の流通を許したこと自体が、検査を担う県の失態だ。
Deficiencies in the checking system must be quickly amended.
チェック体制の不備を早急に改める必要がある。
The government must also provide support to alleviate the concerns of consumers and prevent the spread of harmful rumors.
消費者の不安を解消するとともに、いたずらな風評被害を防ぐには、国の支援も不可欠だ。
The farm from which the meat in question was shipped out is located within an emergency evacuation preparation zone established in the wake of the crisis at the Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant.
問題の肉牛を出荷した農家は、東京電力福島第１原発事故に伴う緊急時避難準備区域内にある。
The Fukushima Prefectural Government has conducted external radiation checks on all cows shipped out from this area and the prefecture's planned evacuation zone, but checks on the meat have been restricted to sampled screening by local bodies across the country where the meat is processed.
県は、この区域と計画的避難区域から出荷される肉牛全頭について、体の表面の放射線量を検査している。しかし、肉そのものに関しては、解体処理する出荷先自治体のサンプル調査に任せていた。
In cases like this, in which cows have been exposed to radiation internally through their feed, officials can't check for radiation without actually testing the processed meat.
今回のようにエサなどから内部被ばくしている場合、肉そのものを検査しなければ、チェックできない。
To find out what cows had been fed and how they had been raised, the Fukushima Prefectural Government had done no more than ask farmers.
県はエサの内容を含めた飼育状況についても、農家の申告を聞き取るだけで済ませてきた。
Its half-hearted approach to inspections ended up casting doubt on the safety of food products from the prefecture.
中途半端な検査体制が、県産品の安全性を疑わせる事態を招いたともいえる。
To prevent a recurrence, the prefectural government says it will launch emergency inspections covering all beef-cattle farms in the two evacuation zones and perform checks on all beef cattle that are shipped out, including checks for internal radiation.
再発防止のため、福島県は両区域の肉牛農家を対象に、緊急の立ち入り調査を始め、出荷する肉牛については、内部被ばくも含めた全頭検査を実施するという。
It sees the measures as necessary to ease consumers' concerns and prevent the spread of harmful rumors.
消費者に安心を与え、風評被害を防ぐためにも、必要な対応と考える。
However, testing all cows is no easy task.
しかし、全頭検査は、簡単ではなさそうだ。
In cases where the cows are processed into meat outside the prefecture, the prefectural government will ask other local bodies to conduct inspections, but parties on the receiving end lack the equipment and manpower to perform the checks.
県外で解体・食肉処理する分については、先方の自治体に検査を要請するが、受け入れ側も検査機材や人員などに余裕がない。
At the same time, there is a limit to how far cooperation between local bodies can go.
自治体間の協力では限界があり、
The central government must therefore also provide support.
国の支援が欠かせない状況だ。
Farm Minister Michihiko Kano and Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Ritsuo Hosokawa have both indicated they will lend their support.
鹿野道彦農相、細川律夫厚生労働相は、ともに支援の意向を表明した。
We urge the government to cooperate with the local bodies involved to quickly work out a concrete solution.
全頭検査実現のため、関係自治体と具体策の詰めを急いでほしい。
Needless to say, the issue has greatly impacted farmers in disaster areas.
今回の問題は、被災地の農家にも大きな衝撃を与えた。
The Fukushima Prefectural Government has asked those in designated regions to refrain from shipping out beef cattle until a testing system is in place.
福島県は、検査体制が整うまで、対象区域の農家に肉牛出荷の自粛を求める。
From the perspective of consumer safety and peace of mind, this is a natural move, but for farmers who have struggled to produce safe meat after having faced the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami and the subsequent threat of radiation, it is no doubt very discouraging.
消費者の安全・安心を考えれば当然のことだが、震災と放射能の危険にさらされながら、安全な牛の飼育を目指してきた農家の落胆は大きいだろう。
Of concern is the fact that the prefecture's agriculture, forestry and fisheries division says there are no current prospects of determining when cows can been shipped out.
しかも、「出荷が可能になる時期のめどは立たない」（県農林水産部）という。
To prevent farmers from losing hope, the government must quickly prepare an inspection system and provide compensation for those who are not able to ship out their cows.
農家の意欲が失われないよう、検査体制の整備とともに、出荷できない農家への補償も急ぐ必要がある。
Even after shipments resume, farmers will not be able to gather grass and rice straw to use as feed if radioactive materials remain in the soil.
出荷可能になっても、土壌に放射性物質が残ったままでは、エサになる牧草や稲わらを採取できない。
To keep farms operating, decontamination work is vital.
営農継続には、除染作業が不可欠であり、
The government must act quickly.
国の迅速な対応が必要だ。
毎日新聞 2011年7月13日 2時32分
Testing system urgently needed after discovery of radiation-tainted beef
社説：放射能汚染牛 全頭検査で安全守れ
Radioactive cesium exceeding the government's provisional upper limit has been detected in the meat of Japanese black cattle shipped out from a farm in Minamisoma, Fukushima Prefecture.
福島県南相馬市の畜産農家が出荷した黒毛和牛から、国の暫定規制値を超える放射性セシウムが検出された。
Some meat shipped out from the same farm has already been consumed.
同じ農家が出荷した別の牛の肉は、一部が既に消費されていた。
It is said the meat does not pose a health threat unless it is consumed in large quantities on an ongoing basis, but the very fact that meat containing an excessive level of radiation has slipped into the market represents a failure on behalf of the Fukushima Prefectural Government, which is in charge of testing.
継続的に大量摂取しなければ健康に影響はないというが、規制値を超える食肉の流通を許したこと自体が、検査を担う県の失態だ。
Deficiencies in the checking system must be quickly amended.
チェック体制の不備を早急に改める必要がある。
The government must also provide support to alleviate the concerns of consumers and prevent the spread of harmful rumors.
消費者の不安を解消するとともに、いたずらな風評被害を防ぐには、国の支援も不可欠だ。
The farm from which the meat in question was shipped out is located within an emergency evacuation preparation zone established in the wake of the crisis at the Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant.
問題の肉牛を出荷した農家は、東京電力福島第１原発事故に伴う緊急時避難準備区域内にある。
The Fukushima Prefectural Government has conducted external radiation checks on all cows shipped out from this area and the prefecture's planned evacuation zone, but checks on the meat have been restricted to sampled screening by local bodies across the country where the meat is processed.
県は、この区域と計画的避難区域から出荷される肉牛全頭について、体の表面の放射線量を検査している。しかし、肉そのものに関しては、解体処理する出荷先自治体のサンプル調査に任せていた。
In cases like this, in which cows have been exposed to radiation internally through their feed, officials can't check for radiation without actually testing the processed meat.
今回のようにエサなどから内部被ばくしている場合、肉そのものを検査しなければ、チェックできない。
To find out what cows had been fed and how they had been raised, the Fukushima Prefectural Government had done no more than ask farmers.
県はエサの内容を含めた飼育状況についても、農家の申告を聞き取るだけで済ませてきた。
Its half-hearted approach to inspections ended up casting doubt on the safety of food products from the prefecture.
中途半端な検査体制が、県産品の安全性を疑わせる事態を招いたともいえる。
To prevent a recurrence, the prefectural government says it will launch emergency inspections covering all beef-cattle farms in the two evacuation zones and perform checks on all beef cattle that are shipped out, including checks for internal radiation.
再発防止のため、福島県は両区域の肉牛農家を対象に、緊急の立ち入り調査を始め、出荷する肉牛については、内部被ばくも含めた全頭検査を実施するという。
It sees the measures as necessary to ease consumers' concerns and prevent the spread of harmful rumors.
消費者に安心を与え、風評被害を防ぐためにも、必要な対応と考える。
However, testing all cows is no easy task.
しかし、全頭検査は、簡単ではなさそうだ。
In cases where the cows are processed into meat outside the prefecture, the prefectural government will ask other local bodies to conduct inspections, but parties on the receiving end lack the equipment and manpower to perform the checks.
県外で解体・食肉処理する分については、先方の自治体に検査を要請するが、受け入れ側も検査機材や人員などに余裕がない。
At the same time, there is a limit to how far cooperation between local bodies can go.
自治体間の協力では限界があり、
The central government must therefore also provide support.
国の支援が欠かせない状況だ。
Farm Minister Michihiko Kano and Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Ritsuo Hosokawa have both indicated they will lend their support.
鹿野道彦農相、細川律夫厚生労働相は、ともに支援の意向を表明した。
We urge the government to cooperate with the local bodies involved to quickly work out a concrete solution.
全頭検査実現のため、関係自治体と具体策の詰めを急いでほしい。
Needless to say, the issue has greatly impacted farmers in disaster areas.
今回の問題は、被災地の農家にも大きな衝撃を与えた。
The Fukushima Prefectural Government has asked those in designated regions to refrain from shipping out beef cattle until a testing system is in place.
福島県は、検査体制が整うまで、対象区域の農家に肉牛出荷の自粛を求める。
From the perspective of consumer safety and peace of mind, this is a natural move, but for farmers who have struggled to produce safe meat after having faced the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami and the subsequent threat of radiation, it is no doubt very discouraging.
消費者の安全・安心を考えれば当然のことだが、震災と放射能の危険にさらされながら、安全な牛の飼育を目指してきた農家の落胆は大きいだろう。
Of concern is the fact that the prefecture's agriculture, forestry and fisheries division says there are no current prospects of determining when cows can been shipped out.
しかも、「出荷が可能になる時期のめどは立たない」（県農林水産部）という。
To prevent farmers from losing hope, the government must quickly prepare an inspection system and provide compensation for those who are not able to ship out their cows.
農家の意欲が失われないよう、検査体制の整備とともに、出荷できない農家への補償も急ぐ必要がある。
Even after shipments resume, farmers will not be able to gather grass and rice straw to use as feed if radioactive materials remain in the soil.
出荷可能になっても、土壌に放射性物質が残ったままでは、エサになる牧草や稲わらを採取できない。
To keep farms operating, decontamination work is vital.
営農継続には、除染作業が不可欠であり、
The government must act quickly.
国の迅速な対応が必要だ。
毎日新聞 2011年7月13日 2時32分
(Mainichi Japan) July 11, 2011
Time to focus on nuclear power plant issue, not political battles
社説：論調観測 耐性試験 原発の安全、内閣の危機
Ideally, life would be safe, comfortable and prosperous, all at once.
安全で快適で豊かな生活ができればそれに越したことはないが、
If it is far too difficult to realize all three simultaneously, however, we must close our eyes to some things and place priority on others.
それらを同時に満たすのが難しければ、何かに目をつぶり何かを優先するしかない。
In response to Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Banri Kaieda's announcement last month that the Genkai Nuclear Power Plant in Saga Prefecture was confirmed safe enough to resume its operations, many major Japanese newspapers were skeptical, with the Mainichi arguing that "discussion on nuclear safety was still lacking," the Asahi Shimbun newspaper calling on the government to "not rush to restart nuclear reactors," and the Tokyo Shimbun declaring that a "premature resumption of operations would be problematic."
Meanwhile, the Sankei Shimbun spoke from the standpoint of concern for power shortages, saying: "We welcome the fact that we are heading in the direction of restarting the Genkai plant."
海江田万里経済産業相の安全宣言と玄海原発運転再開への動きに対し、安全優先の立場からは「安全への議論足りない」（毎日）、「運転再開は焦らずに」（朝日）、「見切り“再開”では困る」（東京）と批判が目立ち、電力不足を懸念する立場からは「再稼働の動きを歓迎する」（産経）との主張が見られたことを先週の本欄は紹介した。
Since then, the Kan administration has done an about-face, announcing the decision to conduct stress tests on all nuclear power plants and bringing the relaunch of operations at the Genkai plant back to square one.
その後、菅政権は一転して全原発に耐性試験を課すことを決め、玄海原発の再開も白紙に戻った。
Reacting to the news, a Mainichi editorial said: "Though questions remain about the circumstances that led to the decision, at least it is a step toward confirming the safety of the nation's nuclear power plants."
毎日は「ここに至った経過にも疑問は残るが、各原発の安全性を評価する上で一歩前進だ」と主張したが、
The Sankei, however, criticized the government's change in policy, demanding that it "stop messing around with the issue of resuming nuclear power plant operations."
産経は「再稼働問題もてあそぶな」と批判した。
Both arguments make sense, considering the tone of the two dailies up until then.
それまでの論調からすれば当然の流れであろう。
What has complicated the respective newspapers' arguments is the pathetic state of communication within the Cabinet, with Prime Minister Naoto Kan taking the lead in the policy reversal and Economy Minister Kaieda, who lost face in the process, hinting at his own resignation.
各紙の論を複雑にしているのは、方針転換が菅直人首相の主導で行われ、メンツをつぶされた海江田経産相が辞任を示唆するなど、閣内の意思疎通を欠いたお粗末さによる。
"Even if there is value to the proposed stress tests, the lack of consistency among government officials as exhibited by Kan and Kaieda only leads to the public's distrust toward the government," a Mainichi editorial posited.
毎日は「テスト自体に意義があっても、こうした一貫性のなさは国民の不信につながる」と指摘。
The Asahi similarly pointed out that "Even if leaders show a good direction, politics will not move forward if they cannot properly advance an initiative and the team falls apart.
朝日は「せっかく良い方向性を示しても、進め方が下手でチームが壊れれば、政治は動かない。
It means the end of an administration." The Yomiuri Shimbun, meanwhile, harshly suggested: "Everyone in the political world should find a way to bring an end to the Kan administration as soon as possible."
それは政権の終わりを意味する」と断じ、読売は「菅政権に一刻も早く終止符を打つ手立てを政界全体で考えるべきである」とさらに厳しい。
It is not as if criticism toward the prime minister is a recent development, but the confusion over the safety of nuclear power plants emerged as Kan was already being chastised from both opposition parties and ruling coalition members for recruiting upper house legislator Kazuyuki Hamada from the opposition Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), and the prime minister was being pressured to take responsibility for appointing Ryu Matsumoto to the post of reconstruction minister -- a rocky tenure that ended with Matsumoto's resignation on his ninth day on the job.
首相批判は今に始まったわけではないが、折しも浜田和幸議員の一本釣りで野党だけでなく与党内からも批判を浴び、就任９日目で辞めた松本龍前復興担当相についても任命責任を問われているさなかである。
It should be pointed out, however, that going back a bit in newspaper editorials, one sees that some papers -- including the Mainichi -- have condemned mere criticism of the prime minister without offering an alternative figure to take his place.
ただ、各紙論調を少し上流にさかのぼると、菅首相の即時辞任を叫ぶ流れと、私たち毎日のように「代案（後任）の旗もあげず批判するだけではだめだ」とする流れがあることも指摘しておきたい。
Four of the most recent Japanese prime ministers only served for about a year each.
わが国の首相はここ４代続けて１年前後しかもっていない。
One after another, they started off with high ratings but soon found themselves awash in criticism.
高支持率で船出しても批判の濁流にのまれての辞任を繰り返してきた。
In addition, we now see no end in sight to the ongoing nuclear crisis, and rebuilding efforts in disaster-stricken areas have yet to take off.
しかも、今回は原発事故の収束も被災地の復興も見えていない中である。
One gets the sense that the consumer habit of seeking things that prove useful right now and throwing out everything that does not fulfill that desire right away, is having an effect in various arenas.
すぐに役立ちそうなものを求め、だめと思えば使い捨てる。そのような消費習慣がいろんな所に影響しているようにも思える。
Shouldn't we be focusing and deliberating the issue of resuming nuclear power plant operations?
本来は原発再稼働に焦点を絞って議論すべき時ではないか。
It's unfortunate that everything gets mired in politics.
何もかも政局絡みになってしまうのは残念だ。
(By Kazuhiro Nozawa, Editorial Writer)
【論説委員・野沢和弘】
毎日新聞 2011年7月10日 東京朝刊
Time to focus on nuclear power plant issue, not political battles
社説：論調観測 耐性試験 原発の安全、内閣の危機
Ideally, life would be safe, comfortable and prosperous, all at once.
安全で快適で豊かな生活ができればそれに越したことはないが、
If it is far too difficult to realize all three simultaneously, however, we must close our eyes to some things and place priority on others.
それらを同時に満たすのが難しければ、何かに目をつぶり何かを優先するしかない。
In response to Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Banri Kaieda's announcement last month that the Genkai Nuclear Power Plant in Saga Prefecture was confirmed safe enough to resume its operations, many major Japanese newspapers were skeptical, with the Mainichi arguing that "discussion on nuclear safety was still lacking," the Asahi Shimbun newspaper calling on the government to "not rush to restart nuclear reactors," and the Tokyo Shimbun declaring that a "premature resumption of operations would be problematic."
Meanwhile, the Sankei Shimbun spoke from the standpoint of concern for power shortages, saying: "We welcome the fact that we are heading in the direction of restarting the Genkai plant."
海江田万里経済産業相の安全宣言と玄海原発運転再開への動きに対し、安全優先の立場からは「安全への議論足りない」（毎日）、「運転再開は焦らずに」（朝日）、「見切り“再開”では困る」（東京）と批判が目立ち、電力不足を懸念する立場からは「再稼働の動きを歓迎する」（産経）との主張が見られたことを先週の本欄は紹介した。
Since then, the Kan administration has done an about-face, announcing the decision to conduct stress tests on all nuclear power plants and bringing the relaunch of operations at the Genkai plant back to square one.
その後、菅政権は一転して全原発に耐性試験を課すことを決め、玄海原発の再開も白紙に戻った。
Reacting to the news, a Mainichi editorial said: "Though questions remain about the circumstances that led to the decision, at least it is a step toward confirming the safety of the nation's nuclear power plants."
毎日は「ここに至った経過にも疑問は残るが、各原発の安全性を評価する上で一歩前進だ」と主張したが、
The Sankei, however, criticized the government's change in policy, demanding that it "stop messing around with the issue of resuming nuclear power plant operations."
産経は「再稼働問題もてあそぶな」と批判した。
Both arguments make sense, considering the tone of the two dailies up until then.
それまでの論調からすれば当然の流れであろう。
What has complicated the respective newspapers' arguments is the pathetic state of communication within the Cabinet, with Prime Minister Naoto Kan taking the lead in the policy reversal and Economy Minister Kaieda, who lost face in the process, hinting at his own resignation.
各紙の論を複雑にしているのは、方針転換が菅直人首相の主導で行われ、メンツをつぶされた海江田経産相が辞任を示唆するなど、閣内の意思疎通を欠いたお粗末さによる。
"Even if there is value to the proposed stress tests, the lack of consistency among government officials as exhibited by Kan and Kaieda only leads to the public's distrust toward the government," a Mainichi editorial posited.
毎日は「テスト自体に意義があっても、こうした一貫性のなさは国民の不信につながる」と指摘。
The Asahi similarly pointed out that "Even if leaders show a good direction, politics will not move forward if they cannot properly advance an initiative and the team falls apart.
朝日は「せっかく良い方向性を示しても、進め方が下手でチームが壊れれば、政治は動かない。
It means the end of an administration." The Yomiuri Shimbun, meanwhile, harshly suggested: "Everyone in the political world should find a way to bring an end to the Kan administration as soon as possible."
それは政権の終わりを意味する」と断じ、読売は「菅政権に一刻も早く終止符を打つ手立てを政界全体で考えるべきである」とさらに厳しい。
It is not as if criticism toward the prime minister is a recent development, but the confusion over the safety of nuclear power plants emerged as Kan was already being chastised from both opposition parties and ruling coalition members for recruiting upper house legislator Kazuyuki Hamada from the opposition Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), and the prime minister was being pressured to take responsibility for appointing Ryu Matsumoto to the post of reconstruction minister -- a rocky tenure that ended with Matsumoto's resignation on his ninth day on the job.
首相批判は今に始まったわけではないが、折しも浜田和幸議員の一本釣りで野党だけでなく与党内からも批判を浴び、就任９日目で辞めた松本龍前復興担当相についても任命責任を問われているさなかである。
It should be pointed out, however, that going back a bit in newspaper editorials, one sees that some papers -- including the Mainichi -- have condemned mere criticism of the prime minister without offering an alternative figure to take his place.
ただ、各紙論調を少し上流にさかのぼると、菅首相の即時辞任を叫ぶ流れと、私たち毎日のように「代案（後任）の旗もあげず批判するだけではだめだ」とする流れがあることも指摘しておきたい。
Four of the most recent Japanese prime ministers only served for about a year each.
わが国の首相はここ４代続けて１年前後しかもっていない。
One after another, they started off with high ratings but soon found themselves awash in criticism.
高支持率で船出しても批判の濁流にのまれての辞任を繰り返してきた。
In addition, we now see no end in sight to the ongoing nuclear crisis, and rebuilding efforts in disaster-stricken areas have yet to take off.
しかも、今回は原発事故の収束も被災地の復興も見えていない中である。
One gets the sense that the consumer habit of seeking things that prove useful right now and throwing out everything that does not fulfill that desire right away, is having an effect in various arenas.
すぐに役立ちそうなものを求め、だめと思えば使い捨てる。そのような消費習慣がいろんな所に影響しているようにも思える。
Shouldn't we be focusing and deliberating the issue of resuming nuclear power plant operations?
本来は原発再稼働に焦点を絞って議論すべき時ではないか。
It's unfortunate that everything gets mired in politics.
何もかも政局絡みになってしまうのは残念だ。
(By Kazuhiro Nozawa, Editorial Writer)
【論説委員・野沢和弘】
毎日新聞 2011年7月10日 東京朝刊
(Mainichi Japan) July 10, 2011
Kaleidoscope of the Heart: Close family ties important but so is independence
香山リカのココロの万華鏡：まずは自分を大切に ／東京
The March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake has reminded many members of the public of the importance of family bonds, but some people feel stressful because their ties with their family members are too close.
大震災を機に家族のきずなの大切さが見直されているが、きずなが強すぎるあまり苦しむ人もいる。
In my consultation room, family relations are one of the top three problems that my patients complain about.
診察室でも「家族との問題」は、いつの時代も悩みごとのトップ３に入る。
"My parents don't understand my feelings," one of them says.
「親が私の気持ちをわかってくれない」
"I don't understand what my children are thinking about," another says while shedding tears.
「子どもが何を考えているのか、まったくわからない」と話しては涙をハラハラこぼす、といった光景もめずらしくない。
In such cases, I would like to say, "Never mind. You and your family members are separate individuals."
そんなとき、私はいつも「まあ、家族といえども別々の人間なのですから」と言いたくなるが、
However, in the eyes of those who have problems with their kin, families other than their own appear to be very happy.
家族問題に悩む人には、自分以外はみな“仲良し家族”に見えるらしい。
Such a view is just an illusion.
決してそんなことはないはずだし、
Moreover, there are a growing number of those living alone who would say, "I don't live with any family members in the first place."
最近は単身者世帯も増えているから「そもそも同居の家族なんていない」という人も少なくないだろう。
I occasionally recommend that young people who have serious family problems leave home and live alone because I think it will be a good opportunity to be independent and self-reliant.
家族の問題であまりに苦しむ若者には、「家を出てみたら？」とすすめることもある。それを自立のきっかけにすればよい、と思うからだ。
However, they hesitate to live apart from their parents and siblings citing their own financial difficulties.
ところが、彼らは「経済的にちょっと」などと言いながらなかなか親やきょうだいのもとから離れようとしない。
When I recently advised a woman in her 20s to live alone, she replied, "Living apart from my family is nothing but an escape from the problems I face."
先日も２０代の女性にひとり暮らしを提案したら、「別々に暮らすのは逃げにしかすぎない」と言われた。
The woman apparently wants to confront her parents and fundamentally solve her family problems.
「あくまで親と対決して、問題を根本から解決したい」というのがその人の考え方のようなのだが、
However, I feel that it is wiser to evade family problems without confronting one's family members.
家族問題は戦わずにかわすのが賢い気がする。
If you buy time while distancing yourselves from your families, your family problems will naturally disappear in many cases.
そして距離を置きながら時間稼ぎをするあいだに、問題が形を変え、自然に解決していくことが多いのではないだろうか。
Today, people tend to call for a prompt resolution to any problem, but there are some problems that need to be solved over a long period of time.
即断即決が推奨される世の中だが、中には時間がかかることもあるのだ。
Furthermore, in some cases, you may never understand or sympathize with your family members.
そして、家族とはいってもどうしても理解し合えない、相性が悪いということだって、やっぱりあるのではないかと思う。
In such cases, you should not worry about it and instead go your own way.
その場合はもうあまりこだわらずに、自分の道を歩んで行けばよい。
You can have bonds with people other than your family members.
きずなは家族以外の人とでも築けるはずだ。
News organizations recently played up an incident in which the brother of a famous baseball player was arrested for possessing marijuana.
最近も、有名野球選手の弟が大麻所持などで逮捕された、というニュースが大きく報じられていた。
It's understandable for the public to express an interest in the news, but the baseball player is probably resentful, saying to himself, "I had nothing to do with the incident."
つい興味を持ってしまう気持ちもわかるが、実力の世界でがんばっている兄としては、「自分とは関係ないのに」と苦々しい思いだろう。
Still, does the player have to expect that when family members are involved in any incident, it will make the news and he himself will be asked by news organizations to comment on the incident?
それでも家族のこととなれば、こうして報道されたりコメントを求められたりしても仕方ないのか。
Family bonds are important, but it is not necessarily true that the closer family bonds are, the happier one becomes.
家族のきずなは大切だけれど、そのきずなが強ければそれでよい、というわけではない。
First of all, you should respect yourselves and be independent and self-reliant.
まずは自分を大切にして、自立をきちんと果たす。
You should build up your relations with family members only after that. Don't think that such an idea is too cold.
家族のことはその上で、と言うのはちょっと冷たすぎるだろうか。
(By Rika Kayama, psychiatrist)
毎日新聞 2011年7月5日 地方版
Kaleidoscope of the Heart: Close family ties important but so is independence
香山リカのココロの万華鏡：まずは自分を大切に ／東京
The March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake has reminded many members of the public of the importance of family bonds, but some people feel stressful because their ties with their family members are too close.
大震災を機に家族のきずなの大切さが見直されているが、きずなが強すぎるあまり苦しむ人もいる。
In my consultation room, family relations are one of the top three problems that my patients complain about.
診察室でも「家族との問題」は、いつの時代も悩みごとのトップ３に入る。
"My parents don't understand my feelings," one of them says.
「親が私の気持ちをわかってくれない」
"I don't understand what my children are thinking about," another says while shedding tears.
「子どもが何を考えているのか、まったくわからない」と話しては涙をハラハラこぼす、といった光景もめずらしくない。
In such cases, I would like to say, "Never mind. You and your family members are separate individuals."
そんなとき、私はいつも「まあ、家族といえども別々の人間なのですから」と言いたくなるが、
However, in the eyes of those who have problems with their kin, families other than their own appear to be very happy.
家族問題に悩む人には、自分以外はみな“仲良し家族”に見えるらしい。
Such a view is just an illusion.
決してそんなことはないはずだし、
Moreover, there are a growing number of those living alone who would say, "I don't live with any family members in the first place."
最近は単身者世帯も増えているから「そもそも同居の家族なんていない」という人も少なくないだろう。
I occasionally recommend that young people who have serious family problems leave home and live alone because I think it will be a good opportunity to be independent and self-reliant.
家族の問題であまりに苦しむ若者には、「家を出てみたら？」とすすめることもある。それを自立のきっかけにすればよい、と思うからだ。
However, they hesitate to live apart from their parents and siblings citing their own financial difficulties.
ところが、彼らは「経済的にちょっと」などと言いながらなかなか親やきょうだいのもとから離れようとしない。
When I recently advised a woman in her 20s to live alone, she replied, "Living apart from my family is nothing but an escape from the problems I face."
先日も２０代の女性にひとり暮らしを提案したら、「別々に暮らすのは逃げにしかすぎない」と言われた。
The woman apparently wants to confront her parents and fundamentally solve her family problems.
「あくまで親と対決して、問題を根本から解決したい」というのがその人の考え方のようなのだが、
However, I feel that it is wiser to evade family problems without confronting one's family members.
家族問題は戦わずにかわすのが賢い気がする。
If you buy time while distancing yourselves from your families, your family problems will naturally disappear in many cases.
そして距離を置きながら時間稼ぎをするあいだに、問題が形を変え、自然に解決していくことが多いのではないだろうか。
Today, people tend to call for a prompt resolution to any problem, but there are some problems that need to be solved over a long period of time.
即断即決が推奨される世の中だが、中には時間がかかることもあるのだ。
Furthermore, in some cases, you may never understand or sympathize with your family members.
そして、家族とはいってもどうしても理解し合えない、相性が悪いということだって、やっぱりあるのではないかと思う。
In such cases, you should not worry about it and instead go your own way.
その場合はもうあまりこだわらずに、自分の道を歩んで行けばよい。
You can have bonds with people other than your family members.
きずなは家族以外の人とでも築けるはずだ。
News organizations recently played up an incident in which the brother of a famous baseball player was arrested for possessing marijuana.
最近も、有名野球選手の弟が大麻所持などで逮捕された、というニュースが大きく報じられていた。
It's understandable for the public to express an interest in the news, but the baseball player is probably resentful, saying to himself, "I had nothing to do with the incident."
つい興味を持ってしまう気持ちもわかるが、実力の世界でがんばっている兄としては、「自分とは関係ないのに」と苦々しい思いだろう。
Still, does the player have to expect that when family members are involved in any incident, it will make the news and he himself will be asked by news organizations to comment on the incident?
それでも家族のこととなれば、こうして報道されたりコメントを求められたりしても仕方ないのか。
Family bonds are important, but it is not necessarily true that the closer family bonds are, the happier one becomes.
家族のきずなは大切だけれど、そのきずなが強ければそれでよい、というわけではない。
First of all, you should respect yourselves and be independent and self-reliant.
まずは自分を大切にして、自立をきちんと果たす。
You should build up your relations with family members only after that. Don't think that such an idea is too cold.
家族のことはその上で、と言うのはちょっと冷たすぎるだろうか。
(By Rika Kayama, psychiatrist)
毎日新聞 2011年7月5日 地方版
2011/07/10
--The Asahi Shimbun, July 9
EDITORIAL: Lawmakers should get busy and lead Diet, instead of blocking Kan's efforts
震災と国会―議員立法で働こう
The Kan administration's frustrating inability to function amid the ongoing disaster recovery crisis is nothing short of scandalous.
政権の機能不全は目に余る。
But what is the Diet doing about it?
では国会は何をしているのか。
Looking at the legislature, we find the main opposition Liberal Democratic Party, in tandem with the New Komeito and other opposition parties, has drafted a handful of bills to deal with important policy issues related to the Great East Japan Earthquake.
そう思って見てみると、自民党が公明党など他の野党と共同で、東日本大震災対策の議員立法を矢継ぎ早に打ち出しているのが目立つ。
These include a bill that allows the government to make tentative compensation payments for losses caused by the accident at Tokyo Electric Power Co.'s Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant.
東京電力の原発事故の賠償金を国が仮払いする法案、
They have also created a bill for full state financing of the work to clean up the debris left by the March 11 tsunami.
がれき処理の費用を全額国で負担する特別措置法案に続いて、
On July 8, the LDP and Komeito jointly submitted a bill to the Diet that will create a new entity to buy up loans to disaster-hit small businesses that have run into new debt.
きのうは、中小企業などの債務を買い取る組織を新設する二重ローン対策法案を国会に提出した。
The LDP is also considering legislation to set up a Diet committee to investigate the nuclear accident at the Fukushima plant.
原発事故の調査委員会を国会に設ける法案なども検討しているという。
Some of these pieces of legislation are similar to the bills and measures being prepared by the Kan administration and the ruling Democratic Party of Japan.
政府・与党が同じような法案や対策を準備しているものもあるが、
But others are more ambitious and substantial proposals reflecting opposition viewpoints.
野党の立場から、より踏み込んだ内容も少なくない。
As expected, the LDP's legislative drive is politically motivated.
もちろん、自民党には政治的な思惑があろう。
The party is apparently hoping to emphasize the delays in the Kan administration's efforts to tackle the challenges posed by the disaster.
とにかく、菅政権の震災対応の遅れを印象づけたい。
The LDP is also seeking to convince voters that the opposition camp is not just causing legislative gridlock by hindering the ruling bloc's proposals.
野党が足を引っ張ってばかりで国政を停滞させているわけではない、と世論にアピールしたい。
The LDP seems to have decided that the best way to achieve these political objectives is to propose its own bills.
そのためには、どんどん法案を出すに限る。
This is obvious. We are aware of the political plotting that lies behind these opposition moves, and we urge the government and the ruling party to seriously consider demonstrating their magnanimity by adopting those proposals by the opposition that are most constructive.
そんな野党の戦術を承知の上で、ここは政府・与党に真剣に考えてほしい。建設的な提案ならば、大胆に採り入れる度量を示したらどうか。
First of all, in the current circumstances, it is impossible for the ruling camp to enact bills without the cooperation of the opposition parties, which control the Upper House.
もともと、衆参ねじれ国会の下では、与党単独で法案を通すことはできないのだ。
What we need now is quick action to enact bills and measures that will help rebuild areas devastated by the earthquake and tsunami.
いま必要なことは、復旧・復興に役立つ法律や政策を一日も早くつくることだ。
But the Kan Cabinet is sinking deeper into a political quagmire. Last week, newly appointed reconstruction minister Ryu Matsumoto quit over his inappropriate remarks, and now Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Banri Kaieda has indicated he plans to step down.
だが、松本龍復興担当相の辞任に続く、海江田万里経済産業相の辞意表明で、「内閣崩壊」が止まらない。
All this is happening when there are less than 60 days left in the current extended Diet session.
延長国会の残り会期は６０日を切っている。
The situation clearly calls for more vigorous action by the Diet.
だからこそ、立法府が奮起するときだ。
There is no time to waste on partisan political battles over policy efforts to cope with this epic disaster.
震災対策で与野党が功名争いをしている時間はない。
Lawmakers in both camps should work in closer cooperation to accomplish their duties to benefit the disaster-hit regions and survivors.
もっと協調して被災地のために粛々と責務を果たそう。
In an encouraging move, the DPJ, the LDP and Komeito have revised the government-drafted bill to establish the basic organizational and financial frameworks for the policy efforts for post-disaster reconstruction and submitted it afresh to the Diet under the initiative of their lawmakers.
復興基本法は、政府案を修正し、民主、自民、公明３党が議員立法で出し直した。
Legislation drafted and sponsored by Diet members, as opposed to bills written by the government, is an appealing and effective way to promote bipartisan cooperation.
与野党の協調を具体化する手段として、議員立法という手法は、わかりやすくて有効なのだ。
Both the ruling and opposition parties should demonstrate their political prowess by turning the current legislative impasse into an opportunity to expand the role of lawmaker-initiated legislation as an agent of change in this nation's politics.
この際、今国会を議員立法で政治を動かす転機にする。そんな気構えを与野党に求める。
We should remember that it was legislation drafted by Diet members that first put Japan on the path of atomic energy development.
思い起こせば、日本の原子力開発は議員立法で始まった。
In the mid 1950s, a nonpartisan group of lawmakers led by former Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone drafted and sponsored both the bill for Japan's first budget for nuclear power generation and the basic legislation for nuclear power development.
１９５０年代半ば、日本初の原子力予算も原子力基本法も、中曽根康弘元首相を中心とした超党派の議員の発案だった。
Now, we need legislators in both camps supporting the cause of making Japan less dependent on nuclear power to band together and create legislation to expand the use of renewable energy sources.
「脱・原発依存」をめざす与野党の議員は、いまこそ自然エネルギーを画期的に普及させる議員立法を構想してほしい。
This is a great opportunity for the Diet to show that, rather than being incapable of making any important policy decisions while locked in partisan bickering, it can move to help the plight of the disaster victims.
被災地そっちのけで政争に明け暮れ、何も決められない。そんな国会の汚名を返上しよう。
--The Asahi Shimbun, July 9
EDITORIAL: Lawmakers should get busy and lead Diet, instead of blocking Kan's efforts
震災と国会―議員立法で働こう
The Kan administration's frustrating inability to function amid the ongoing disaster recovery crisis is nothing short of scandalous.
政権の機能不全は目に余る。
But what is the Diet doing about it?
では国会は何をしているのか。
Looking at the legislature, we find the main opposition Liberal Democratic Party, in tandem with the New Komeito and other opposition parties, has drafted a handful of bills to deal with important policy issues related to the Great East Japan Earthquake.
そう思って見てみると、自民党が公明党など他の野党と共同で、東日本大震災対策の議員立法を矢継ぎ早に打ち出しているのが目立つ。
These include a bill that allows the government to make tentative compensation payments for losses caused by the accident at Tokyo Electric Power Co.'s Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant.
東京電力の原発事故の賠償金を国が仮払いする法案、
They have also created a bill for full state financing of the work to clean up the debris left by the March 11 tsunami.
がれき処理の費用を全額国で負担する特別措置法案に続いて、
On July 8, the LDP and Komeito jointly submitted a bill to the Diet that will create a new entity to buy up loans to disaster-hit small businesses that have run into new debt.
きのうは、中小企業などの債務を買い取る組織を新設する二重ローン対策法案を国会に提出した。
The LDP is also considering legislation to set up a Diet committee to investigate the nuclear accident at the Fukushima plant.
原発事故の調査委員会を国会に設ける法案なども検討しているという。
Some of these pieces of legislation are similar to the bills and measures being prepared by the Kan administration and the ruling Democratic Party of Japan.
政府・与党が同じような法案や対策を準備しているものもあるが、
But others are more ambitious and substantial proposals reflecting opposition viewpoints.
野党の立場から、より踏み込んだ内容も少なくない。
As expected, the LDP's legislative drive is politically motivated.
もちろん、自民党には政治的な思惑があろう。
The party is apparently hoping to emphasize the delays in the Kan administration's efforts to tackle the challenges posed by the disaster.
とにかく、菅政権の震災対応の遅れを印象づけたい。
The LDP is also seeking to convince voters that the opposition camp is not just causing legislative gridlock by hindering the ruling bloc's proposals.
野党が足を引っ張ってばかりで国政を停滞させているわけではない、と世論にアピールしたい。
The LDP seems to have decided that the best way to achieve these political objectives is to propose its own bills.
そのためには、どんどん法案を出すに限る。
This is obvious. We are aware of the political plotting that lies behind these opposition moves, and we urge the government and the ruling party to seriously consider demonstrating their magnanimity by adopting those proposals by the opposition that are most constructive.
そんな野党の戦術を承知の上で、ここは政府・与党に真剣に考えてほしい。建設的な提案ならば、大胆に採り入れる度量を示したらどうか。
First of all, in the current circumstances, it is impossible for the ruling camp to enact bills without the cooperation of the opposition parties, which control the Upper House.
もともと、衆参ねじれ国会の下では、与党単独で法案を通すことはできないのだ。
What we need now is quick action to enact bills and measures that will help rebuild areas devastated by the earthquake and tsunami.
いま必要なことは、復旧・復興に役立つ法律や政策を一日も早くつくることだ。
But the Kan Cabinet is sinking deeper into a political quagmire. Last week, newly appointed reconstruction minister Ryu Matsumoto quit over his inappropriate remarks, and now Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Banri Kaieda has indicated he plans to step down.
だが、松本龍復興担当相の辞任に続く、海江田万里経済産業相の辞意表明で、「内閣崩壊」が止まらない。
All this is happening when there are less than 60 days left in the current extended Diet session.
延長国会の残り会期は６０日を切っている。
The situation clearly calls for more vigorous action by the Diet.
だからこそ、立法府が奮起するときだ。
There is no time to waste on partisan political battles over policy efforts to cope with this epic disaster.
震災対策で与野党が功名争いをしている時間はない。
Lawmakers in both camps should work in closer cooperation to accomplish their duties to benefit the disaster-hit regions and survivors.
もっと協調して被災地のために粛々と責務を果たそう。
In an encouraging move, the DPJ, the LDP and Komeito have revised the government-drafted bill to establish the basic organizational and financial frameworks for the policy efforts for post-disaster reconstruction and submitted it afresh to the Diet under the initiative of their lawmakers.
復興基本法は、政府案を修正し、民主、自民、公明３党が議員立法で出し直した。
Legislation drafted and sponsored by Diet members, as opposed to bills written by the government, is an appealing and effective way to promote bipartisan cooperation.
与野党の協調を具体化する手段として、議員立法という手法は、わかりやすくて有効なのだ。
Both the ruling and opposition parties should demonstrate their political prowess by turning the current legislative impasse into an opportunity to expand the role of lawmaker-initiated legislation as an agent of change in this nation's politics.
この際、今国会を議員立法で政治を動かす転機にする。そんな気構えを与野党に求める。
We should remember that it was legislation drafted by Diet members that first put Japan on the path of atomic energy development.
思い起こせば、日本の原子力開発は議員立法で始まった。
In the mid 1950s, a nonpartisan group of lawmakers led by former Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone drafted and sponsored both the bill for Japan's first budget for nuclear power generation and the basic legislation for nuclear power development.
１９５０年代半ば、日本初の原子力予算も原子力基本法も、中曽根康弘元首相を中心とした超党派の議員の発案だった。
Now, we need legislators in both camps supporting the cause of making Japan less dependent on nuclear power to band together and create legislation to expand the use of renewable energy sources.
「脱・原発依存」をめざす与野党の議員は、いまこそ自然エネルギーを画期的に普及させる議員立法を構想してほしい。
This is a great opportunity for the Diet to show that, rather than being incapable of making any important policy decisions while locked in partisan bickering, it can move to help the plight of the disaster victims.
被災地そっちのけで政争に明け暮れ、何も決められない。そんな国会の汚名を返上しよう。
(Mainichi Japan) July 8, 2011
Kyushu Electric bid to manipulate public opinion on reactor restart a colossal mistake
社説：九電やらせ指示 変わらぬ体質に驚く
Kyushu Electric Power Co.'s attempt to manipulate public opinion on the reactivation of two reactors at its Genkai Nuclear Power Plant by asking employees at its subsidiaries and others to send e-mails to a TV program in favor of the reactivation must be criticized as extremely ill-advised.
「民意」を捏造（ねつぞう）しようとした、あまりに浅はかな行為だ。定期検査で止まっている九州電力玄海原子力発電所（佐賀県玄海町）２、３号機の運転再開に向け、経済産業省がケーブルテレビで放送した県民への説明番組に対し、九電の課長級社員が子会社などに、原発再稼働を支持する電子メールを投稿するよう依頼していた。
The scandal not only damaged the public's confidence in Kyushu Electric Power Co. but also could amplify the public's distrust of Japan's nuclear power business as a whole. It could also lead to the resignation of top executives at the company.
九電の信用が失墜しただけでなく、原発事業全体に対する国民の不信感を一段と増幅しかねず、経営トップの進退にも直結する不祥事といえるだろう。
It has been confirmed that a division chief-level employee at the company asked four employees at subsidiaries and three individuals at the firm's nuclear power-related divisions to pose as members of the general public and send e-mail comments to a TV program about the Genkai plant, expressing support for the reactivation.
この社員は、子会社４社の社員４人と九電社内の原発関連部署３カ所の３人に、メールで依頼した。
He also asked them to send e-mails from their home computers to conceal their identities as employees at Kyushu Electric or its subsidiaries.
しかも、九電関係者と分からないよう、自宅などのパソコンから送信するよう、「隠蔽（いんぺい）工作」も指示していた。
These revelations illustrate the employee's willful attempt to manipulate public opinion on the issue in an unfair manner.
民意を不正に操作する「犯意」は明らかだ。
A prefectural assembly member in Kagoshima Prefecture, which hosts the utility's Sendai Nuclear Power Plant, asked a question about the scandal during a July 4 session, but the company categorically denied any wrongdoing.
この問題をめぐっては、今月４日に、九電川内原発がある鹿児島県の県議会でも、メールで依頼したことの真偽について質問が出たが、九電幹部は明確に否定。
The president of the power company only admitted to the allegations on July 6, when the matter was brought up during a Diet session.
６日に国会で取り上げられて初めて、社長が事実を認めた。
The electric power industry has come under fire for covering up many accidents and falsifying data, thereby damaging the public's trust.
電力業界ではこれまで、数々の事故隠し、データ捏造などが問題になり、住民の信用を損ねてきた。
Calls for the industry as a whole to change its dogmatic and closed culture intensified following radiation leaks from the tsunami-hit Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant, run by Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO). 東電の福島原発事故では、そうした独善的、閉鎖的な企業体質の改善が強く求められた。
However, Kyushu Electric does not appear to have learned anything from the Fukushima nuclear crisis.
しかし、今回も反省は生かされなかったようだ。
The latest scandal involving Kyushu Electric could spur distrust in other power suppliers.
国民の不信感は、他の電力会社へも波及しかねない。
As the public is increasingly critical of nuclear power generation, power suppliers have been unable to resume operations at reactors stopped for regular checkups.
原発への国民の視線が厳しさを増し、定検を終えた原発も再稼働できない事態が続いている。
The latest scandal is particularly serious as Kyushu Electric cannot reactivate the Genkai plant without consent from local residents.
再稼働には、地域住民の理解と納得が欠かせないだけに、今回の不祥事の影響は深刻だ。
The mayor of Genkai has retracted his approval for the planned resumption of operations at Genkai Nuclear Power Plant.
実際、再稼働を了承していた玄海町長は、了承を撤回した。
政府の「ストレステスト」実施という要因も加わったが、地元の信頼は大きく損なわれた。
It remains unclear how many executives and employees were involved in the scandal.
「やらせメール」に関しては、上司を含めた他の社員の指示や関与など不明な点も多い。
Kyushu Electric is required to conduct an in-house investigation of the scandal, and implement measures to improve compliance in order to prevent a recurrence.
まず、事実関係を調査し、その結果を明らかにしなければならない。九電は、調査結果を踏まえ、再発防止に向けたコンプライアンス（法令順守）体制の立て直しを急ぐ必要がある。
それにしても、なぜこんな愚行を犯したのか。
Behind the scandal are desperate moves to hasten the reactivation of the Genkai Nuclear Power Plant, as symbolized by Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Banri Kaieda's declaration that all nuclear reactors undergoing regular inspections are safe.
海江田万里経産相が定検中の原発について、「安全宣言」したことに代表される原発再開を急ぐ動きと無関係ではないだろう。
Those in favor of the resumption of operations at the Genkai power station have placed high expectations on the plant as a milestone on the road to restarting nuclear reactors across the country.
地元も再稼働に前向きとみられた玄海原発には、再開の一里塚として、再開促進派の期待は大きかったようだ。
The TV program in question has been criticized by some as an attempt to pave the way for resuming operations at the Genkai plant rather than to gain local residents' understanding, as only seven people selected by the national government were allowed to appear.
もともと県民への説明番組にしても、出席者が国の選んだ７人に制限されたことなどから「再開への地ならし」との批判があった。
In short, such hasty and desperate moves triggered Kyushu Electric's act of folly.
拙速が招いた愚行だったということだ。
毎日新聞 2011年7月8日 2時30分
Kyushu Electric bid to manipulate public opinion on reactor restart a colossal mistake
社説：九電やらせ指示 変わらぬ体質に驚く
Kyushu Electric Power Co.'s attempt to manipulate public opinion on the reactivation of two reactors at its Genkai Nuclear Power Plant by asking employees at its subsidiaries and others to send e-mails to a TV program in favor of the reactivation must be criticized as extremely ill-advised.
「民意」を捏造（ねつぞう）しようとした、あまりに浅はかな行為だ。定期検査で止まっている九州電力玄海原子力発電所（佐賀県玄海町）２、３号機の運転再開に向け、経済産業省がケーブルテレビで放送した県民への説明番組に対し、九電の課長級社員が子会社などに、原発再稼働を支持する電子メールを投稿するよう依頼していた。
The scandal not only damaged the public's confidence in Kyushu Electric Power Co. but also could amplify the public's distrust of Japan's nuclear power business as a whole. It could also lead to the resignation of top executives at the company.
九電の信用が失墜しただけでなく、原発事業全体に対する国民の不信感を一段と増幅しかねず、経営トップの進退にも直結する不祥事といえるだろう。
It has been confirmed that a division chief-level employee at the company asked four employees at subsidiaries and three individuals at the firm's nuclear power-related divisions to pose as members of the general public and send e-mail comments to a TV program about the Genkai plant, expressing support for the reactivation.
この社員は、子会社４社の社員４人と九電社内の原発関連部署３カ所の３人に、メールで依頼した。
He also asked them to send e-mails from their home computers to conceal their identities as employees at Kyushu Electric or its subsidiaries.
しかも、九電関係者と分からないよう、自宅などのパソコンから送信するよう、「隠蔽（いんぺい）工作」も指示していた。
These revelations illustrate the employee's willful attempt to manipulate public opinion on the issue in an unfair manner.
民意を不正に操作する「犯意」は明らかだ。
A prefectural assembly member in Kagoshima Prefecture, which hosts the utility's Sendai Nuclear Power Plant, asked a question about the scandal during a July 4 session, but the company categorically denied any wrongdoing.
この問題をめぐっては、今月４日に、九電川内原発がある鹿児島県の県議会でも、メールで依頼したことの真偽について質問が出たが、九電幹部は明確に否定。
The president of the power company only admitted to the allegations on July 6, when the matter was brought up during a Diet session.
６日に国会で取り上げられて初めて、社長が事実を認めた。
The electric power industry has come under fire for covering up many accidents and falsifying data, thereby damaging the public's trust.
電力業界ではこれまで、数々の事故隠し、データ捏造などが問題になり、住民の信用を損ねてきた。
Calls for the industry as a whole to change its dogmatic and closed culture intensified following radiation leaks from the tsunami-hit Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant, run by Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO). 東電の福島原発事故では、そうした独善的、閉鎖的な企業体質の改善が強く求められた。
However, Kyushu Electric does not appear to have learned anything from the Fukushima nuclear crisis.
しかし、今回も反省は生かされなかったようだ。
The latest scandal involving Kyushu Electric could spur distrust in other power suppliers.
国民の不信感は、他の電力会社へも波及しかねない。
As the public is increasingly critical of nuclear power generation, power suppliers have been unable to resume operations at reactors stopped for regular checkups.
原発への国民の視線が厳しさを増し、定検を終えた原発も再稼働できない事態が続いている。
The latest scandal is particularly serious as Kyushu Electric cannot reactivate the Genkai plant without consent from local residents.
再稼働には、地域住民の理解と納得が欠かせないだけに、今回の不祥事の影響は深刻だ。
The mayor of Genkai has retracted his approval for the planned resumption of operations at Genkai Nuclear Power Plant.
実際、再稼働を了承していた玄海町長は、了承を撤回した。
政府の「ストレステスト」実施という要因も加わったが、地元の信頼は大きく損なわれた。
It remains unclear how many executives and employees were involved in the scandal.
「やらせメール」に関しては、上司を含めた他の社員の指示や関与など不明な点も多い。
Kyushu Electric is required to conduct an in-house investigation of the scandal, and implement measures to improve compliance in order to prevent a recurrence.
まず、事実関係を調査し、その結果を明らかにしなければならない。九電は、調査結果を踏まえ、再発防止に向けたコンプライアンス（法令順守）体制の立て直しを急ぐ必要がある。
それにしても、なぜこんな愚行を犯したのか。
Behind the scandal are desperate moves to hasten the reactivation of the Genkai Nuclear Power Plant, as symbolized by Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Banri Kaieda's declaration that all nuclear reactors undergoing regular inspections are safe.
海江田万里経産相が定検中の原発について、「安全宣言」したことに代表される原発再開を急ぐ動きと無関係ではないだろう。
Those in favor of the resumption of operations at the Genkai power station have placed high expectations on the plant as a milestone on the road to restarting nuclear reactors across the country.
地元も再稼働に前向きとみられた玄海原発には、再開の一里塚として、再開促進派の期待は大きかったようだ。
The TV program in question has been criticized by some as an attempt to pave the way for resuming operations at the Genkai plant rather than to gain local residents' understanding, as only seven people selected by the national government were allowed to appear.
もともと県民への説明番組にしても、出席者が国の選んだ７人に制限されたことなどから「再開への地ならし」との批判があった。
In short, such hasty and desperate moves triggered Kyushu Electric's act of folly.
拙速が招いた愚行だったということだ。
毎日新聞 2011年7月8日 2時30分
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Jul. 8, 2011)
Thais should welcome chance for reconciliation
タイ政権交代 安定化へ国民和解の実現を（7月7日付・読売社説）
Recent developments in Thailand present an opportunity to end the antagonism and disorder that have hitherto divided the country and to realize national reconciliation. Thailand should take this opportunity.
タイ国内を二分した対立と騒乱に終止符を打ち国民和解を実現する契機とすべきだろう。
The Puea Thai (For Thais) party, with former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's sister Yingluck Shinawatra as its candidate for prime minister, won a majority of the votes in the latest general election.
先の総選挙でタクシン元首相の妹、インラック氏を首相候補とした「タイ貢献党」が過半数を制して勝利した。
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva conceded his Democrat Party's defeat and made clear his intention to resign as party leader.
民主党のアピシット首相は敗北を認め、党首辞任を表明した。
Puea Thai has formed a coalition with four other parties, excluding the Democrat Party, with Yingluck certain to be appointed as the country's first female prime minister shortly by a new parliament.
貢献党は民主党以外の４党と連立を組むことになり、インラック氏が近く新国会でタイ初の女性首相に就任するのは確実だ。
Yingluck is a businesswoman and political novice.
インラック氏は実業家出身で、政治経験がない。
She calls herself Thaksin's "clone," but whether she shares his political ability is unknown.
「兄のクローン」と表現しているが、政治手腕は未知数だ。
In her election campaign, she advocated national reconciliation.
公約に国民和解を掲げた。
===
Thaksin should stay away
We hope the new prime minister will try to achieve political stability, while not following Thaksin's style, which was criticized for heavy-handed methods and money politics.
強権と金権体質で批判された元首相の手法は踏襲せず、政治の安定を図ってほしい。
The focal issue for the time being will be whether or not Thaksin, who is in self-imposed exile abroad, will return home for a political comeback.
当面の焦点は海外亡命中の元首相が復権を狙って帰国するかどうかだ。
The former prime minister currently has a two-year jail term for corruption hanging over him.
Should he return to Thailand under amnesty, it will almost inevitably lead the country into turmoil.
汚職罪で禁錮２年の刑が確定している元首相が恩赦で帰国すれば、混乱は避けられまい。
While in office, the former prime minister moved ahead with various reforms, including efforts to mitigate poverty and to reorganize government ministries and agencies.
元首相は在任中、貧困軽減や省庁再編などの改革を進めた。
But when he was questioned over alleged tax evasion by a relative, he dissolved the House of Representatives. だが、一族の脱税疑惑を追及されるや、下院を電撃解散した。
The abrupt dissolution caused resentment among middle-class urbanites and groups with interests in the status quo, such as financial combines, bureaucrats and the military. All of this led to a coup d'etat in 2006.
これに都市の中間層や、財閥、官僚、軍など既得権益層が反発し、２００６年のクーデターに至った。
This time, the country's military has indicated it will respect the outcome of the latest election.
軍は今回、選挙結果を受け入れる方針を示した。
They should not repeat their intervention in politics.
政治介入を繰り返してはならない。
Even during Abhisit's 2-1/2-year administration, the country's turmoil continued.
２年半余りのアピシット政権時代も混乱は続いた。
Last year, a large number of people were killed or wounded in clashes between the military and pro-Thaksin protesters who had occupied part of downtown Bangkok.
昨年はタクシン派によるバンコク占拠事件で多数の死傷者が出た。
There has been growing public disappointment with Abhisit over his lack of leadership for failing to bring the turmoil swiftly under control, and also over price increases.
騒乱を早期に収拾できなかった指導力不足に対する国民の失望感や、物価上昇への不満が強まっていた。
===
Deep divisions persist
The victorious Puea Thai has garnered support from poor farmers and low-income city dwellers.
勝利した貢献党は、貧しい農民や都市の低所得者層から支持を集めた。
Divisions between it and the interests who support the Democrat Party are becoming ever more entrenched.
しかし、民主党を支える既得権益層との分断は、一段と固定化しつつある。
Whether or not these anti-Thaksin forces respond favorably to calls for national reconciliation will be key to the stability of Thailand.
これら反タクシン勢力が今後、国民和解に応えるかが、タイ安定化の重要なカギとなる。
King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who has served as a mediator at times of national crisis, is now 83 years old and is in poor health.
国難に際し、調停役を演じて来たプミポン国王も８３歳と高齢で、健康問題を抱えている。
Democracy in the kingdom is now at a major transitional stage.
タイ民主主義は大きな転換期にある。
Thousands of Japanese companies and local affiliates are operating in the country, with Japan's investments representing the largest share of foreign capital.
タイには数千規模の日系企業が進出しており、投資額も日本が最も多い。
The rising wages of workers have become the biggest issue for the Japanese companies.
最大の課題となっているのは上昇する労働賃金だ。
Puea Thai pledged during the election campaign that it will drastically raise the minimum wage across the country. 貢献党は最低賃金を全国的に大きく引き上げると公約した。
Japanese companies and their affiliates may thus have a harder time in securing workers.
日系企業は労働者の調達に、ますます苦労するおそれがある。
Efforts to legally hire workers coming from such neighboring countries as Laos and Cambodia have made little progress due to restrictions imposed by the Thai government.
ラオスやカンボジアなど周辺国からの合法的な労働者の雇用はタイ政府の規制でなかなか進まない。
We hope the new administration will realize an improvement in the country's labor market, including the relaxation of regulations.
規制緩和を含む労働市場の改善も次期政権には望みたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, July 7, 2011)
（2011年7月7日01時30分 読売新聞）
Thais should welcome chance for reconciliation
タイ政権交代 安定化へ国民和解の実現を（7月7日付・読売社説）
Recent developments in Thailand present an opportunity to end the antagonism and disorder that have hitherto divided the country and to realize national reconciliation. Thailand should take this opportunity.
タイ国内を二分した対立と騒乱に終止符を打ち国民和解を実現する契機とすべきだろう。
The Puea Thai (For Thais) party, with former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's sister Yingluck Shinawatra as its candidate for prime minister, won a majority of the votes in the latest general election.
先の総選挙でタクシン元首相の妹、インラック氏を首相候補とした「タイ貢献党」が過半数を制して勝利した。
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva conceded his Democrat Party's defeat and made clear his intention to resign as party leader.
民主党のアピシット首相は敗北を認め、党首辞任を表明した。
Puea Thai has formed a coalition with four other parties, excluding the Democrat Party, with Yingluck certain to be appointed as the country's first female prime minister shortly by a new parliament.
貢献党は民主党以外の４党と連立を組むことになり、インラック氏が近く新国会でタイ初の女性首相に就任するのは確実だ。
Yingluck is a businesswoman and political novice.
インラック氏は実業家出身で、政治経験がない。
She calls herself Thaksin's "clone," but whether she shares his political ability is unknown.
「兄のクローン」と表現しているが、政治手腕は未知数だ。
In her election campaign, she advocated national reconciliation.
公約に国民和解を掲げた。
===
Thaksin should stay away
We hope the new prime minister will try to achieve political stability, while not following Thaksin's style, which was criticized for heavy-handed methods and money politics.
強権と金権体質で批判された元首相の手法は踏襲せず、政治の安定を図ってほしい。
The focal issue for the time being will be whether or not Thaksin, who is in self-imposed exile abroad, will return home for a political comeback.
当面の焦点は海外亡命中の元首相が復権を狙って帰国するかどうかだ。
The former prime minister currently has a two-year jail term for corruption hanging over him.
Should he return to Thailand under amnesty, it will almost inevitably lead the country into turmoil.
汚職罪で禁錮２年の刑が確定している元首相が恩赦で帰国すれば、混乱は避けられまい。
While in office, the former prime minister moved ahead with various reforms, including efforts to mitigate poverty and to reorganize government ministries and agencies.
元首相は在任中、貧困軽減や省庁再編などの改革を進めた。
But when he was questioned over alleged tax evasion by a relative, he dissolved the House of Representatives. だが、一族の脱税疑惑を追及されるや、下院を電撃解散した。
The abrupt dissolution caused resentment among middle-class urbanites and groups with interests in the status quo, such as financial combines, bureaucrats and the military. All of this led to a coup d'etat in 2006.
これに都市の中間層や、財閥、官僚、軍など既得権益層が反発し、２００６年のクーデターに至った。
This time, the country's military has indicated it will respect the outcome of the latest election.
軍は今回、選挙結果を受け入れる方針を示した。
They should not repeat their intervention in politics.
政治介入を繰り返してはならない。
Even during Abhisit's 2-1/2-year administration, the country's turmoil continued.
２年半余りのアピシット政権時代も混乱は続いた。
Last year, a large number of people were killed or wounded in clashes between the military and pro-Thaksin protesters who had occupied part of downtown Bangkok.
昨年はタクシン派によるバンコク占拠事件で多数の死傷者が出た。
There has been growing public disappointment with Abhisit over his lack of leadership for failing to bring the turmoil swiftly under control, and also over price increases.
騒乱を早期に収拾できなかった指導力不足に対する国民の失望感や、物価上昇への不満が強まっていた。
===
Deep divisions persist
The victorious Puea Thai has garnered support from poor farmers and low-income city dwellers.
勝利した貢献党は、貧しい農民や都市の低所得者層から支持を集めた。
Divisions between it and the interests who support the Democrat Party are becoming ever more entrenched.
しかし、民主党を支える既得権益層との分断は、一段と固定化しつつある。
Whether or not these anti-Thaksin forces respond favorably to calls for national reconciliation will be key to the stability of Thailand.
これら反タクシン勢力が今後、国民和解に応えるかが、タイ安定化の重要なカギとなる。
King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who has served as a mediator at times of national crisis, is now 83 years old and is in poor health.
国難に際し、調停役を演じて来たプミポン国王も８３歳と高齢で、健康問題を抱えている。
Democracy in the kingdom is now at a major transitional stage.
タイ民主主義は大きな転換期にある。
Thousands of Japanese companies and local affiliates are operating in the country, with Japan's investments representing the largest share of foreign capital.
タイには数千規模の日系企業が進出しており、投資額も日本が最も多い。
The rising wages of workers have become the biggest issue for the Japanese companies.
最大の課題となっているのは上昇する労働賃金だ。
Puea Thai pledged during the election campaign that it will drastically raise the minimum wage across the country. 貢献党は最低賃金を全国的に大きく引き上げると公約した。
Japanese companies and their affiliates may thus have a harder time in securing workers.
日系企業は労働者の調達に、ますます苦労するおそれがある。
Efforts to legally hire workers coming from such neighboring countries as Laos and Cambodia have made little progress due to restrictions imposed by the Thai government.
ラオスやカンボジアなど周辺国からの合法的な労働者の雇用はタイ政府の規制でなかなか進まない。
We hope the new administration will realize an improvement in the country's labor market, including the relaxation of regulations.
規制緩和を含む労働市場の改善も次期政権には望みたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, July 7, 2011)
（2011年7月7日01時30分 読売新聞）
テレビで国会中継をみていて嫌になった。
法案の可決に向けた審議に集中して欲しい。
時間の浪費に等しい無意味な質問、返答の応酬に辟易させられた。
（スラチャイ）
(Mainichi Japan) July 6, 2011
Fukushima nuclear crisis an exhibition of panic by the elite
水説：エリートパニック＝潮田道夫
＜ｓｕｉ－ｓｅｔｓｕ＞
The ongoing crisis at the tsunami-hit Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant looks like an exhibition of panic by the elite.
「エリートパニック」が話題になっている。
The headquarters of Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO), the operator of the crippled nuclear power station, has become hesitant to release information on the accident for fear that local residents would panic, as a result of which the utility is suspected of covering up information on the crisis.
This suggests that the company's elite leaders are panicking.
社会の指導的な地位にある人々、つまり政治家などのエリートが、危機に際して市民がパニックに陥るのではないか、と恐れるあまり自らがパニックに陥ってしまうことだ。
今度の福島第１原発の事故はエリートパニックの展覧会みたいだ。東電司令部は住民がパニックになることを恐れ、情報提供が優柔不断になり「情報隠し」を疑われている。つまりエリートパニックに陥った疑いが濃い。
Prime Minister Naoto Kan should be hailed for quickly noticing that TEPCO had got into a panic when the crisis emerged.
However, he himself panicked because he was overly irritated at the power supplier's handling of the crisis, and visited TEPCO's headquarters to give instructions to its executives.
菅直人首相は東電のパニックを見抜いたのはいいが、イラ立ちのあまり自分もパニックを起こし、東電本店に乗り込んで指図を始めた。
His actions only contributed to the confusion within the company.
しかし、かえって現場の混乱を増幅したという見方が強い。
Elite individuals are under the impression that members of the general public panic when faced with a crisis, but their view is not necessarily correct.
大衆は危機に際しパニックを起こす。エリートはそう思い込んでいるが、必ずしもそうではない。
Those who were victims of the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake and ensuing tsunami helped each other regardless of whether they are acquainted with each other, and took actions in a well-organized manner.
今度の大震災でも大災害に見舞われた人々が近隣縁者はもとより、見ず知らずのもの同士が助け合い、整然とした行動をとった。
In their news reports, overseas media outlets expressed surprise at how calmly Japanese disaster victims acted without panicking.
海外メディアは、日本人はなぜパニックを起こさないのだと驚嘆した。
"A Paradise Built in Hell: Extraordinary Community That Arises in Disaster," authored by U.S. writer Rebecca Solnit, highlights the phenomenon of togetherness at times of major disasters that has been observed all over the world.
米国の作家レベッカ・ソルニットの「災害ユートピア－なぜそのとき特別な共同体が立ち上がるのか」（亜紀書房）によれば、大災害のとき「地獄で天国が立ち上がる」現象が世界中で観察されている。
This is not only the case with Japan.
何も日本人だけがそうなのではない。
In fact, such mutual help was observed among London residents at the time of massive air strikes during World War II and between residents of New Orleans when they were hit by Hurricane Katrina.
第二次大戦の大空襲に際してのロンドン市民、近年ではハリケーン「カトリーナ」に襲われた米ニューオーリンズ市民等々、崇高な助け合いがあった。
When citizens share the experience of a devastating disaster, it brings them a sense of solidarity that they usually do not have.
とんでもない厄災を共有する中で平時にはめったに生まれない連帯感・帰属感が生まれるからだ。
Politicians and other elite individuals must not view ordinary citizens as lost sheep. Excessive paternalism by the elite could cause themselves to panic and is highly harmful.
ということは、政治家などエリートは大衆を迷える羊とみてはならず、強過ぎるパターナリズム（保護者意識）は為政者自身のパニックを引き起こし、むしろ有害ということだ。
A lesson that should be learned from panic by the elite observed in the ongoing Fukushima nuclear crisis is that politicians and other elite individuals should trust citizens and not cover up information.
教訓は「民を信じよ」ということであり、情報を隠すなということであろう。
However, in reality this principle cannot be simply applied.
一般論としては、それでいいのであるが、現実への適用となると、なかなか一筋縄でいかないところがある。
For instance, one cannot help but wonder whether the way media outlets covered large-scale runs on banks during the financial crisis in the 1990s was appropriate.
９０年代の金融危機のころ、銀行の一部で取り付け騒ぎが起き、銀行の周りを預金者が取り巻いた。報じ方が悩ましかった。
Almost all newspapers refrained from playing up the case for fear that their massive coverage could fuel panic among depositors.
各紙とも、パニックを引き起こしかねないというので、あまり報道しなかったと記憶する。あれが正しい態度だったのかどうか。
This is also the case with the coverage of the latest disaster in Japan.
今度の震災もしかり。
It would be out of the question to report the disaster in a way that it could spur panic, but if media outlets imposed excessive self-restraint, it would also be a problem.
「あおり」は論外だが、抑制的過ぎても後悔しそうだ。
Newspaper editors need to regularly check if they too are panicking.
新聞もエリートパニックに陥っていないか、日々、点検する必要がある。（専門編集委員）
(By Michio Ushioda, Expert Senior Writer)
毎日新聞 2011年7月6日 東京朝刊
法案の可決に向けた審議に集中して欲しい。
時間の浪費に等しい無意味な質問、返答の応酬に辟易させられた。
（スラチャイ）
(Mainichi Japan) July 6, 2011
Fukushima nuclear crisis an exhibition of panic by the elite
水説：エリートパニック＝潮田道夫
＜ｓｕｉ－ｓｅｔｓｕ＞
The ongoing crisis at the tsunami-hit Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant looks like an exhibition of panic by the elite.
「エリートパニック」が話題になっている。
The headquarters of Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO), the operator of the crippled nuclear power station, has become hesitant to release information on the accident for fear that local residents would panic, as a result of which the utility is suspected of covering up information on the crisis.
This suggests that the company's elite leaders are panicking.
社会の指導的な地位にある人々、つまり政治家などのエリートが、危機に際して市民がパニックに陥るのではないか、と恐れるあまり自らがパニックに陥ってしまうことだ。
今度の福島第１原発の事故はエリートパニックの展覧会みたいだ。東電司令部は住民がパニックになることを恐れ、情報提供が優柔不断になり「情報隠し」を疑われている。つまりエリートパニックに陥った疑いが濃い。
Prime Minister Naoto Kan should be hailed for quickly noticing that TEPCO had got into a panic when the crisis emerged.
However, he himself panicked because he was overly irritated at the power supplier's handling of the crisis, and visited TEPCO's headquarters to give instructions to its executives.
菅直人首相は東電のパニックを見抜いたのはいいが、イラ立ちのあまり自分もパニックを起こし、東電本店に乗り込んで指図を始めた。
His actions only contributed to the confusion within the company.
しかし、かえって現場の混乱を増幅したという見方が強い。
Elite individuals are under the impression that members of the general public panic when faced with a crisis, but their view is not necessarily correct.
大衆は危機に際しパニックを起こす。エリートはそう思い込んでいるが、必ずしもそうではない。
Those who were victims of the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake and ensuing tsunami helped each other regardless of whether they are acquainted with each other, and took actions in a well-organized manner.
今度の大震災でも大災害に見舞われた人々が近隣縁者はもとより、見ず知らずのもの同士が助け合い、整然とした行動をとった。
In their news reports, overseas media outlets expressed surprise at how calmly Japanese disaster victims acted without panicking.
海外メディアは、日本人はなぜパニックを起こさないのだと驚嘆した。
"A Paradise Built in Hell: Extraordinary Community That Arises in Disaster," authored by U.S. writer Rebecca Solnit, highlights the phenomenon of togetherness at times of major disasters that has been observed all over the world.
米国の作家レベッカ・ソルニットの「災害ユートピア－なぜそのとき特別な共同体が立ち上がるのか」（亜紀書房）によれば、大災害のとき「地獄で天国が立ち上がる」現象が世界中で観察されている。
This is not only the case with Japan.
何も日本人だけがそうなのではない。
In fact, such mutual help was observed among London residents at the time of massive air strikes during World War II and between residents of New Orleans when they were hit by Hurricane Katrina.
第二次大戦の大空襲に際してのロンドン市民、近年ではハリケーン「カトリーナ」に襲われた米ニューオーリンズ市民等々、崇高な助け合いがあった。
When citizens share the experience of a devastating disaster, it brings them a sense of solidarity that they usually do not have.
とんでもない厄災を共有する中で平時にはめったに生まれない連帯感・帰属感が生まれるからだ。
Politicians and other elite individuals must not view ordinary citizens as lost sheep. Excessive paternalism by the elite could cause themselves to panic and is highly harmful.
ということは、政治家などエリートは大衆を迷える羊とみてはならず、強過ぎるパターナリズム（保護者意識）は為政者自身のパニックを引き起こし、むしろ有害ということだ。
A lesson that should be learned from panic by the elite observed in the ongoing Fukushima nuclear crisis is that politicians and other elite individuals should trust citizens and not cover up information.
教訓は「民を信じよ」ということであり、情報を隠すなということであろう。
However, in reality this principle cannot be simply applied.
一般論としては、それでいいのであるが、現実への適用となると、なかなか一筋縄でいかないところがある。
For instance, one cannot help but wonder whether the way media outlets covered large-scale runs on banks during the financial crisis in the 1990s was appropriate.
９０年代の金融危機のころ、銀行の一部で取り付け騒ぎが起き、銀行の周りを預金者が取り巻いた。報じ方が悩ましかった。
Almost all newspapers refrained from playing up the case for fear that their massive coverage could fuel panic among depositors.
各紙とも、パニックを引き起こしかねないというので、あまり報道しなかったと記憶する。あれが正しい態度だったのかどうか。
This is also the case with the coverage of the latest disaster in Japan.
今度の震災もしかり。
It would be out of the question to report the disaster in a way that it could spur panic, but if media outlets imposed excessive self-restraint, it would also be a problem.
「あおり」は論外だが、抑制的過ぎても後悔しそうだ。
Newspaper editors need to regularly check if they too are panicking.
新聞もエリートパニックに陥っていないか、日々、点検する必要がある。（専門編集委員）
(By Michio Ushioda, Expert Senior Writer)
毎日新聞 2011年7月6日 東京朝刊
The Yomiuri Shimbun (Jul. 6, 2011)
Attention, Diet members: Stop wasting time
国会正常化へ 無策のまま時間を浪費するな（7月5日付・読売社説）
The stalled Diet session will finally resume deliberations on Wednesday.
空転していた国会が、ようやく６日に審議を再開する。
The ruling Democratic Party of Japan and the two major opposition parties--the Liberal Democratic Party and New Komeito--have agreed to get the Diet back to normal.
民主、自民、公明３党が国会を正常化することで合意した。
The Diet, since it decided on June 22 to extend its current session by 70 days, has not held any deliberations.
国会は先月２２日に７０日間の会期延長を決めて以来、審議をしていない。
So what is the extension for?
何のための延長か。
The government and the ruling parties should seriously reflect on that.
政府・与党は猛省すべきだ。
Prime Minister Naoto Kan is primarily responsible for the stalled Diet.
国会空転の責任は、一義的には菅首相にある。
Kan reneged on the idea--agreed on earlier by the secretaries general of the DPJ, the LDP and Komeito--of extending the Diet session by just 50 days to pass or vote on three key bills, including the second supplementary budget for fiscal 2011.
首相は民主、自民、公明３党の幹事長が第２次補正予算案など３件の成立・採決で合意した会期延長案を反古(ほご)にした。
Kan did not call on the opposition camp to resume the Diet deliberation strongly enough.
This is apparently due to his guilty feelings over having appointed an LDP member in the House of Councillors as parliamentary secretary for internal affairs and communications, as if he were scheming to win over members of the opposition party one at a time.
自民党参院議員を総務政務官に「一本釣り」したことの後ろめたさもあってか、野党に審議再開を強く呼びかけてこなかった。
Kan also hinted at the possibility of his dissolving the House of Representatives for a snap election by saying that "energy policy will be the biggest point of contention in the next national election."
首相は、「エネルギー政策は次期国政選挙でも最大の争点」として、衆院解散もちらつかせた。
===
Politics going nowhere
This self-righteous political style has created a political vacuum and amplified the people's distrust of politics.
こうした首相の独善的な政治手法が「政治空白」を招き、国民の政治不信を増幅させている。
According to a recent public opinion poll taken by The Yomiuri Shimbun, 66 percent of pollees sense "stagnation in politics."
読売新聞の世論調査によると、「政治の停滞」を感じる人は６６％にのぼる。
In regards to when they hope to see Kan step down, a combined total of 72 percent said either "as soon as possible," or "by the end of August."
首相の退陣については「できるだけ早く」「８月末まで」との回答が計７２％を占めた。
Ryu Matsumoto, newly appointed by Kan as reconstruction minister, has also caused a stir.
首相の肝いりで起用された松本復興相も物議を醸している。
During a weekend visit to disaster-hit areas, Matsumoto repeatedly made high-handed remarks. After Matsumoto waited for a prefectural governor to appear in a reception room, he told the governor, "When a guest comes, you have to be present."
現地入りし、県知事に「お客が来る時は、自分が（部屋に）入ってから呼べ」などと高圧的な発言を連発した。
If he thinks he is a "guest," he is wrong in his judgment.
自分を「客」だと思っているのなら、勘違いも甚だしい。
No matter how feckless it is, the administration should not waste any more time doing nothing.
ふがいない政権だが、無策のまま時間を浪費してはならない。
It is vitally important for the government and the ruling parties to seek cooperation of the opposition parties on high-priority policies and swiftly implement them.
政府・与党は優先度の高い政策から野党に協力を求め、実現を急ぐことが肝要だ。
DPJ Secretary General Katsuya Okada once again called on the LDP and Komeito to cooperate in the early enactment of a bill for a temporary law to allow the issuance of deficit-covering special public bonds, which Kan cited as one of the conditions for him to resign.
民主党の岡田幹事長は、自民、公明両党に対し、首相が退陣の条件に掲げる特例公債法案の早期成立への協力を改めて要請した。
===
Listen to opposition
Both the LDP and Komeito call for a drastic review of the child-rearing allowances and the settlement of the issue of how to secure state funds for basic pension benefits this fiscal year, as part of those funds have been diverted for reconstruction purposes in the first extra budget for fiscal 2011.
自公両党は、子ども手当の抜本的な見直しと、第１次補正予算の財源に転用した基礎年金の国庫負担分の穴埋め問題を決着させることを求めている。
What the opposition parties are asserting is quite reasonable in the sense of holding down the deficit-covering special public bonds as much as possible.
赤字国債の発行額をできるだけ抑制するという意味で、野党側の言い分はもっともだ。
To secure funds for reconstruction, the DPJ must retract nonessential policies contained in its manifesto.
震災対策の財源を確保するために、民主党は、政権公約に盛られた不要不急の政策を撤回しなければならない。
A matter of particular urgency is relief for victims of the accidents at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, rather than "a bill concerning special measures on renewable energy sources," whose enactment Kan insists on. 喫緊の課題は、首相が執着している「再生可能エネルギー特別措置法案」より、原発事故の被災者救援だ。
The legislators need to start deliberating a bill concerning a nuclear damage compensation support organization, to be created to pay compensation to victims.
被災者に賠償するための「原子力損害賠償支援機構法案」の審議に入る必要がある。
The LDP wants to modify the bill to clarify the responsibility of the central government, rather than merely holding Tokyo Electric Power Co., the operator of the crippled plant, responsible for the damages.
自民党は、賠償責任を東京電力だけに押し付けるのではなく、国の責任も明確化するよう修正を求める構えだ。
Both ruling and opposition parties need to reach an agreement and try to get the bill passed into law.
与野党で合意点を見いだし、成立を図るべきだ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, July 5, 2011)
（2011年7月5日01時19分 読売新聞）
Attention, Diet members: Stop wasting time
国会正常化へ 無策のまま時間を浪費するな（7月5日付・読売社説）
The stalled Diet session will finally resume deliberations on Wednesday.
空転していた国会が、ようやく６日に審議を再開する。
The ruling Democratic Party of Japan and the two major opposition parties--the Liberal Democratic Party and New Komeito--have agreed to get the Diet back to normal.
民主、自民、公明３党が国会を正常化することで合意した。
The Diet, since it decided on June 22 to extend its current session by 70 days, has not held any deliberations.
国会は先月２２日に７０日間の会期延長を決めて以来、審議をしていない。
So what is the extension for?
何のための延長か。
The government and the ruling parties should seriously reflect on that.
政府・与党は猛省すべきだ。
Prime Minister Naoto Kan is primarily responsible for the stalled Diet.
国会空転の責任は、一義的には菅首相にある。
Kan reneged on the idea--agreed on earlier by the secretaries general of the DPJ, the LDP and Komeito--of extending the Diet session by just 50 days to pass or vote on three key bills, including the second supplementary budget for fiscal 2011.
首相は民主、自民、公明３党の幹事長が第２次補正予算案など３件の成立・採決で合意した会期延長案を反古(ほご)にした。
Kan did not call on the opposition camp to resume the Diet deliberation strongly enough.
This is apparently due to his guilty feelings over having appointed an LDP member in the House of Councillors as parliamentary secretary for internal affairs and communications, as if he were scheming to win over members of the opposition party one at a time.
自民党参院議員を総務政務官に「一本釣り」したことの後ろめたさもあってか、野党に審議再開を強く呼びかけてこなかった。
Kan also hinted at the possibility of his dissolving the House of Representatives for a snap election by saying that "energy policy will be the biggest point of contention in the next national election."
首相は、「エネルギー政策は次期国政選挙でも最大の争点」として、衆院解散もちらつかせた。
===
Politics going nowhere
This self-righteous political style has created a political vacuum and amplified the people's distrust of politics.
こうした首相の独善的な政治手法が「政治空白」を招き、国民の政治不信を増幅させている。
According to a recent public opinion poll taken by The Yomiuri Shimbun, 66 percent of pollees sense "stagnation in politics."
読売新聞の世論調査によると、「政治の停滞」を感じる人は６６％にのぼる。
In regards to when they hope to see Kan step down, a combined total of 72 percent said either "as soon as possible," or "by the end of August."
首相の退陣については「できるだけ早く」「８月末まで」との回答が計７２％を占めた。
Ryu Matsumoto, newly appointed by Kan as reconstruction minister, has also caused a stir.
首相の肝いりで起用された松本復興相も物議を醸している。
During a weekend visit to disaster-hit areas, Matsumoto repeatedly made high-handed remarks. After Matsumoto waited for a prefectural governor to appear in a reception room, he told the governor, "When a guest comes, you have to be present."
現地入りし、県知事に「お客が来る時は、自分が（部屋に）入ってから呼べ」などと高圧的な発言を連発した。
If he thinks he is a "guest," he is wrong in his judgment.
自分を「客」だと思っているのなら、勘違いも甚だしい。
No matter how feckless it is, the administration should not waste any more time doing nothing.
ふがいない政権だが、無策のまま時間を浪費してはならない。
It is vitally important for the government and the ruling parties to seek cooperation of the opposition parties on high-priority policies and swiftly implement them.
政府・与党は優先度の高い政策から野党に協力を求め、実現を急ぐことが肝要だ。
DPJ Secretary General Katsuya Okada once again called on the LDP and Komeito to cooperate in the early enactment of a bill for a temporary law to allow the issuance of deficit-covering special public bonds, which Kan cited as one of the conditions for him to resign.
民主党の岡田幹事長は、自民、公明両党に対し、首相が退陣の条件に掲げる特例公債法案の早期成立への協力を改めて要請した。
===
Listen to opposition
Both the LDP and Komeito call for a drastic review of the child-rearing allowances and the settlement of the issue of how to secure state funds for basic pension benefits this fiscal year, as part of those funds have been diverted for reconstruction purposes in the first extra budget for fiscal 2011.
自公両党は、子ども手当の抜本的な見直しと、第１次補正予算の財源に転用した基礎年金の国庫負担分の穴埋め問題を決着させることを求めている。
What the opposition parties are asserting is quite reasonable in the sense of holding down the deficit-covering special public bonds as much as possible.
赤字国債の発行額をできるだけ抑制するという意味で、野党側の言い分はもっともだ。
To secure funds for reconstruction, the DPJ must retract nonessential policies contained in its manifesto.
震災対策の財源を確保するために、民主党は、政権公約に盛られた不要不急の政策を撤回しなければならない。
A matter of particular urgency is relief for victims of the accidents at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, rather than "a bill concerning special measures on renewable energy sources," whose enactment Kan insists on. 喫緊の課題は、首相が執着している「再生可能エネルギー特別措置法案」より、原発事故の被災者救援だ。
The legislators need to start deliberating a bill concerning a nuclear damage compensation support organization, to be created to pay compensation to victims.
被災者に賠償するための「原子力損害賠償支援機構法案」の審議に入る必要がある。
The LDP wants to modify the bill to clarify the responsibility of the central government, rather than merely holding Tokyo Electric Power Co., the operator of the crippled plant, responsible for the damages.
自民党は、賠償責任を東京電力だけに押し付けるのではなく、国の責任も明確化するよう修正を求める構えだ。
Both ruling and opposition parties need to reach an agreement and try to get the bill passed into law.
与野党で合意点を見いだし、成立を図るべきだ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, July 5, 2011)
（2011年7月5日01時19分 読売新聞）
プロフィール
ＨＮ：
srachai
ＨＰ：
性別：
男性
職業：
civil engineer
趣味：
子育て
自己紹介：
妻はタイ人、娘ばかり３人も！
■近況
２００９年の９月１５日に脳梗塞を発症、右手が少し不自由になりました。
MRAで脳梗塞の部位を特定でき、素早い処置をとれたので大事に至りませんでした。
快復にむけてリハビリ中です。
(2011/01/01更新)
■自己紹介・リンク
[ はじめに ]
タイのスラチャイです。
英語学習に王道はありません。
毎日毎日の地道な努力の積み重ねが必要です。
スラチャイはＮＨＫのラジオ英語会話で現在の英語力を身につけました。
一日僅か１５分の学習でも数年間継続すれば相当な学習効果が期待できます。
[ 名前 ]
松井 清 （スラチャイ）
[ 略歴 ]
・福岡県出身
・国立高知大学卒業
・準大手建設会社に就職
・50歳で会社を早期退職
・99/10 タイ全土を旅行
・00/10 タイに移住
・03/07 カイちゃん誕生
・07/06 シーファーちゃん誕生
・現在タイ国コンケン在住
[ 座右の銘 ]
Slow and steady wins the race.
遅くとも着実な者が勝利する
（NHK基礎英語芹沢栄先生）
[ 学習の手引き ]
・音読して耳から英語を吸収
・Think in English.
・ネイティブ発音付辞書活用
・英英辞典を活用（英和も）
・翻訳和文で専門用語確認
[ English Newspapers ]
Yomiuri
Mainichi
Asahi
Japan Times
Washington Post
Newyork Times
Bangkok Post
The Nations
Phuket Gazette
[ 英字新聞の英和対訳学習 ]
英字新聞（読売）
英字新聞（毎日）
英字新聞（朝日）
英字新聞（朝日２）
[ スラチャイ編集の辞書 ]
タイ日辞書（改訂版）
日タイ辞書（改訂版）
ラオ日辞書
日ラオ辞書
最新記事
(02/09)
(01/22)
(01/22)
(01/09)
(01/08)
(01/01)
(06/21)
(06/12)
(06/10)
(06/06)
カテゴリー
アーカイブ
リンク
家族、リンク、多言語、タイ語
スラチャイの家族紹介
私の家族
スラチャイの手作りリンク集
スラチャイタイ在住９年目
中国語会話基礎（北京語）
タイ日辞典（単語帳）
タイ語の子音
タイ語の母音
スラチャイ編曲のmidiのギター曲
スラチャイ編曲のJ.S.Bachです
スラチャイの多国言語学習
初歩のタイ語
初歩の中国語
初歩のラオス語
初歩のビルマ語
初歩のシンハリ語
初歩のタガログ語
タイ語の基礎
タイ文字
タイ日辞書
タイ語の副詞
タイ語の前置詞
タイ語の助動詞
タイ語の接続詞
基礎タイ語
基礎タイ語一覧（タイ文字、ローマ字）
seesaaサイト内リンク一覧：
01 あいさつ
02 別れのあいさつ
03 声をかけるとき
04 感謝の言葉と答え方
05 謝罪の言葉と答え方
06 聞き直すとき
07 相手の言うことがわからないとき
08 うまく言えないとき
09 一般的なあいづち
10 よくわからないときの返事
11 強めのあいづち
12 自分について述べるとき
13 相手のことを尋ねるとき
14 頼みごとをするとき
15 申し出・依頼を断るとき
16 許可を求めるとき
17 説明してもらうとき
18 確認を求めるとき
19 状況を知りたいとき
20 値段の尋ね方と断り方
21 急いでもらいたいとき
22 待ってもらいたいとき
23 日時・場所・天候を尋ねるとき
24 その他
基礎タイ語一覧(タイ文字、音声付き）
サイト外HPリンク一覧：
01 あいさつ
02 別れのあいさつ
03 声をかけるとき
04 感謝の言葉と答え方
05 謝罪の言葉と答え方
06 聞き直すとき
07 相手の言うことがわからないとき
08 うまく言えないとき
09 一般的なあいづち
10 よくわからないときの返事
11 強めのあいづち
12 自分について述べるとき
13 相手のことを尋ねるとき
14 頼みごとをするとき
15 申し出・依頼を断るとき
16 許可を求めるとき
17 説明してもらうとき
18 確認を求めるとき
19 状況を知りたいとき
20 値段の尋ね方と断り方
21 急いでもらいたいとき
22 待ってもらいたいとき
23 日時・場所・天候を尋ねるとき
24 その他
タイの文化、１４の戒律
タイの文化一覧:
01 雨の日にも傘をささないタイ人
02 勉強熱心なタイ人女性たち
03 タイ人は敬謙な仏教徒
04 タイの市場
05 タイの食堂
06 タイ人は外食が大好き
07 果物王国タイランド
08 タイ人の誕生日
09 タイの電話代は高い
10 微笑みの国タイランド
1４の戒律（テラワーダ仏教戒律）
seesaaサイト内リンク一覧：
第０１番目の戒律
第０２番目の戒律
第０３番目の戒律
第０４番目の戒律
第０５番目の戒律
第０６番目の戒律
第０７番目の戒律
第０８番目の戒律
第０９番目の戒律
第１０番目の戒律
第１１番目の戒律
第１２番目の戒律
第１３番目の戒律
第１４番目の戒律
1４の戒律（テラワーダ仏教戒律）
サイト外HPリンク一覧：
１４の戒律解説
第０１番目の戒律
第０２番目の戒律
第０３番目の戒律
第０４番目の戒律
第０５番目の戒律
第０６番目の戒律
第０７番目の戒律
第０８番目の戒律
第０９番目の戒律
第１０番目の戒律
第１１番目の戒律
第１２番目の戒律
第１３番目の戒律
第１４番目の戒律