Wrecked Japanese nuclear plant to double pay after criticism 東電の労働者のお給料が2倍に

(Source) http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/08/us-japan-fukushima-tepco-idUSBRE9A70CH20131108
(Reuters) - The operator of Japan's wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant will double the pay of contract workers as part of a revamp of operations at the station, after coming under criticism for its handling of clean-up efforts.
Hazard pay for the thousands of workers on short-term contracts will be increased from 10,000 yen ($100) to 20,000 yen a day, Tokyo Electric Power Co said in a statement on Friday.
It will also tighten supervision of contractors and improve meals and other conditions at the site where three reactors melted down in March 2011 after an earthquake and tsunami.
A Reuters investigation last month found that workers' pay was being skimmed, some had been hired under false pretences, and some contractors had links to organized crime gangs.
Tokyo Electric also faces a shortage of workers for the clean-up, that will take decades and cost more than $150 billion.
The revamp of operations comes as the company prepares to start removing spent fuel rods from one of four damaged reactors. The unprecedented operation, which could begin next week, will mark the beginning of full decommissioning efforts.
The utility has been heavily criticized by Japan's nuclear regulator over conditions at the site after workers were contaminated with radiation during often slipshod clean-up operations along with other mishaps.
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