Major exercise tests Gibraltar's ability to respond to radiation emergency

Gibraltar’s ability to respond to a radiation emergency has been tested in a major exercise involving the Government and the Ministry of Defence.

Exercise Rocky Pigeon is held every three years and simulates a radiation leak. It tested Gibraltar’s multi-agency response, from on-site emergency services to command centre coordination and the mock distribution of iodine tablets to the population.

The Civil Contingencies Coordinator, Ivor Lopez said  the drill confirmed that Gibraltar’s contingency plans remain effective and that agencies can work together efficiently in the event of a real emergency.

For his part, the Commander British Forces Gibraltar said the exercise also helped secure Gibraltar’s re-authorisation as an Operational Berth for another three years , allowing Royal Navy vessels carrying nuclear material to dock locally under strict safety oversight.