The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative is concerned about Bruce Power’s plans to ship steam generators on the Great Lakes.
The radioactive generators are scheduled to set sail for Sweden from Owen Sound in the fall.
70 Mayors representing over 13 million people in Canada and the United States
are dedicated to the protection of the Lakes and River which is a source of drinking water for more than 40 million people.
The group is concerned about lack of public consultation, transparency and potential environment and public health impacts the shipment would have.
They support the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commissions decision to hold a public hearing next month.
They want more information to help understand the risks involved.
Also if the shipment is necessary and if all the other alternatives have been pursued.
If shipping is approved they are asking what notification will go to local governments, what will the timing be, methods to prevent an accident and ways to minimize security risks, measures to respond to an accident, the potential environmental impact if there was an accident.
They are also concerned about low water levels in the St. Lawrence.
They want to know the age and condition of the ship to be used and the safety and environmental record of the shipper.
They are encouraging the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission to consider the need to protect the Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence River and no shipments should be made until all questions are answered.
