Dear Editor,
In recent days, the NWMO team in the Saugeen Ojibway Nation–South Bruce siting area have noticed a significant increase in misleading information about Canada’s plan for nuclear fuel and the work we do at NWMO. This misrepresentation is disheartening because we are deeply committed to protecting people and the environment, which is at the very core of our mission.
A deep geological repository for used nuclear fuel is designed precisely to ensure long-term safety for communities and the environment. This isn’t just a part of the project—it is its very foundation.
When the NWMO and nuclear industry experts talk about safety, we’re referring to the rigorous study of risk and its mitigation. Our process is transparent, guided by scientific evidence and over a decade of detailed studies.
For instance, our Confidence in Safety report from 2022 and updated 2023 —both independently peer-reviewed—are built on an extensive analysis of risks. These studies conclude that a deep geological repository can be constructed and managed safely, not just now, but for generations to come.
There is also international consensus that isolating used nuclear fuel in a deep geological repository is the safest and most responsible long-term solution. Most countries with commercial
nuclear power are pursuing similar approaches.
This safety case considers every facet of the project, from handling and transport to potential future events like ice ages. It also includes community and worker safety, as well as environmental preservation.
We remain committed to the highest standards of transparency and community engagement.
Once a site for Canada’s used nuclear fuel is selected, the implementation of Canada’s plan will be subject to open and transparent, rigorous regulatory decision-making processes overseen by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) and an impact assessment completed by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC). There are regulatory processes in place to cover the entire life cycle of the repository, from site preparation to construction, operation, decommissioning (closure and post-closure).
The NWMO has made substantial efforts to keep local communities informed. In 2024 alone, we’ve hosted tours of our Discovery and Demonstration Centre in Oakville, organized or participated in 25 local information sessions, and knocked on over 1,000 doors in the community. We have welcomed world-renowned experts in nuclear safety, transportation, and geoscience to community forums, and continue to provide learning opportunities to local businesses and residents.
While there are always ongoing discussions about complex projects like this one, we believe that informed dialogue is essential. That’s why we are here, in the community, ready to answer questions and provide clarity on any concerns.
If you’re interested in learning more, our office at 12B Clinton Street in Teeswater is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with extended hours until 6:30 p.m. from Oct. 21 to 25. You can also reach us via email at southbruce@nwmo.ca or by phone at 519-392-6966.
For more casual conversations, we host coffee club at Hometown Pizza in Teeswater on Wednesday mornings from 7:30-10:30 a.m., and at Harley’s Pub and Perk in Mildmay on Thursday mornings from 8:30-10:30 a.m.
We’d love to see you there
Michael Pahor, Hon. Environmental Studies, MA
Environmental Policy Director, Site Selection NWMO
