For years, the northwestern part of Ontario has been considered as a potential location for Canada’s first deep geological repository (DGR) intended for nuclear waste.
The proposed site, situated near the Township of Ignace and Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, would involve burying Canada’s spent nuclear fuel hundreds of metres beneath the surface – a plan that has faced significant backlash from environmentalists and Indigenous leaders.
This Wednesday, the federal government revealed that the DGR might be categorized as a project of national interest, suggesting that its construction timeline could be expedited under the Building Canada Act.
This announcement is being positively received by some community leaders, who argue that this project is vital for revitalizing the local economy. However, others, particularly those involved with We the Nuclear Free North, describe the government’s push to fast-track approval as “a betrayal of public trust.”
WATCH | Why this Ontario town agreed to take Canada’s nuclear waste:
Why this Ontario town agreed to take Canada’s nuclear waste
The northern Ontario town of Ignace has consented to host Canada’s nuclear waste. The National’s Nick Purdon traveled to learn why most residents support this decision and how toxic materials will be safely stored deep underground.
Ignace has a population of about 1,200 people and is located roughly 245 kilometres northwest of Thunder Bay. Meanwhile, Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation consists of around 200 members on reserve.
Aaron Gullins, chief administrative officer of Ignace, mentioned that if the DGR gets approved, the township’s population could potentially double or triple.
“We’re hoping that Ignace realizes that growth,” Gullins stated. “because it hasn’t done well in the last couple of decades.”
After experiencing years of industrial decline and rising living costs, the township welcomes any chance “to alleviate some of those pressures and ensure that our community can thrive like it did back in the ‘80s.”
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Dave Plourde is mayor of Kapuskasing, Ont., and president of Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities. (Town of Kapuskasing website)
“It involves taking decisive action while ensuring we have all necessary provisions ready so we can truly capitalize on expected growth.”
This means implementing essential infrastructure upgrades along Highway 11-17 corridor which address persistent safety issues.
NOMA along with FONOM have urged federal officials recognizing these highways – critical east-west transportation routes across country – as strategic national infrastructure.LISTEN | Northwest nuclear waste repository could become a nationally important project:
7:01Northwest nuclear waste repository could become a nationally important projectThe federal government considers designating Canada’s first deep geological repository planned for Ignace region an issue deserving nationwide importance; we hear insights from Federation President Dave Plourde regarding possible impacts on area.
“Both routes require urgent repairs whether it relates directly transporting nuclear material or increased traffic anticipated due mining developments occurring locally,” Plourde highlighted.
The municipal associations urge provincial & federal governments collaborate “to pinpoint priority sections needing expansion, twinning, and safety upgrades along Highways 11&17” states news release issued Wednesday.
Diverse Opinions Call For Thorough Review And Consultations
Safety concerning transportation remains among top worries voiced by opponents against DGR proposal. A recent rally saw numerous locals joined forces First Nation chiefs within Thunder Bay earlier month addressing concerns around environment, safety rights involving regional indigenous peoples.
“Our main focus stays centered upon ensuring safety -whatever pathways chosen, we require comprehensive reviews assessing all safety dimensions,” commented Wendy O’Connor, a volunteer affiliated We The Nuclear Free North.
