Premier Giorgia Meloni announced to parliament on Wednesday that the Italian government plans to authorize a framework for the reintroduction of nuclear energy this summer. Italy, which halted its nuclear program following a referendum spurred by the Chernobyl disaster four decades ago, is now considering the integration of advanced small reactors utilized by private companies to reinstate nuclear power as a viable energy source. According to Meloni, an enabling law to facilitate this transition is expected to be passed in the upcoming months. The government argues that this move will enhance energy independence and reduce costs, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Iran.
In her address during Premier Time in the Senate, Meloni extended an invitation to the opposition, expressing her willingness to collaborate on pressing national issues such as employment, healthcare, the birth rate, and electoral reform. Despite her overtures, the opposition has already dismissed the proposal. Emphasizing her administration’s priorities, Meloni stated that wages, business incentives, and birth rates remain at the forefront of their agenda. She also highlighted that there has been a decline in precarious employment and a rise in stable jobs under her leadership. She asserted that remaining in Italy should be a competitive choice rather than a courageous act for young individuals, pointing to the ongoing challenge of brain drain.
Meloni advocated for higher wages in Italy, suggesting that enhancing collective bargaining could be a solution. She also reported that by the end of March, 76% of the EU funds allocated for the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) had been utilized, underscoring the government’s effectiveness in managing these resources. Despite these achievements, Meloni engaged in a public disagreement with Matteo Renzi, the leader of the centrist Italia Viva party and a former premier, over the government’s housing strategy.