The Saugeen Ojibway Nation issued a message to its membership through its Environment Office today shortly after The Province, through Energy Minister Todd Smith, made the announcement that they intend to support a study by Bruce Power to check the feasibility of a new nuclear development at their site.
In the corresponding release Saugeen First Nation Chief Conrad Richie and Ogimaa Kwe Veronica Smith of the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation says that the Saugeen Ojobway Nation have been following this closely, and in recent meetings with the Minister have made it clear that although they understand the energy challenges facing Ontario and the push to plan for new electricity projects, new projects present a serious challenge for the Saugeen Ojibway Nation and its people.
They add that any future decisions on nuclear must include the SON as central participants in the planning process.
The Bruce Power study and assessment of new nuclear may take upwards of 10 years. Although they say they did not choose this path, they expect to play a major role in shaping the process through agreements with Canada, Ontario and Bruce Power.
They say the announcement in no way commits them to new nuclear development on SON territory. They add they are prepared to stop any project that does not align with their rights, interests or vision for the future of their people.
The full text of the announcement is available below. (Click to enlarge)
