nuclear-news

Say goodbye to independent assessments of nuclear projects in Canada

3 July 2026

The Nuclear Fist: Five Federal Initiatives Pushing and Promoting Nuclear Power
There are currently five federal nuclear related initiatives / announcements:   “Getting Major Projects Built in Canada – Discussion Paper on Proposed Legislative, Regulatory, and Policy Reforms” announced May 8th with the deadline now extended to July 22; the electricity strategy “Powering Canada Strong: A National Strategy for an Electrified Canadian Economy” which was announced  May 14 with comment invited but no deadline; the Standing Committee on Natural Resources and the Environment electrification study with the deadline – and the study – now extended to mid-September; the Nuclear Energy Strategy for Canada announced June 22 with no comment invited and so no deadline for comment, and the June 24 announcement of the potential “listing” of the NWMO DGR under the Build Canada Act (aka Bill C-5), also no public comment period.

​Prime Minister Mark Carney wants to end independent assessment of nuclear projects and hand over this responsibility to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. ​READ SUBMISSIONS 

Why is this a bad idea?

The CNSC cannot be trusted because it:

• Is led by industry insiders
• Often is seen as a promoter and co-proponent of nuclear projects
• Reports to the Minister who promotes nuclear power
• Has never denied a licence application
• Often excludes the public from its hearings
• Does not have the required independence from the nuclear industry
• Secretly authorised transport of radioactive fuel waste from Gentilly-1 nuclear plant across Quebec into Ontario 

Nuclear power is uniquely complex and risky.
Fast-tracking nuclear projects is outright dangerous:

• Accidents can have catastrophic consequences
• Nuclear materials are toxic and radioactive – some literally forever!
• Nuclear power is linked to nuclear proliferation

Decisions about nuclear projects must be based on sound information that has been examined and tested by the public, independent experts and an independent review panel. Social concerns, protection of public health and the environment, and economic value must all be considered. 

What can you do?
Between now and July 22 you can provide comments on the government’s discussion paper. Following that, when legislation is tabled, you can comment on the legislation. Throughout this time, contact your Member of Parliament and members of Cabinet by email, phone and in-office visits and share your concerns about these changes, and the speed with which they are being made.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………https://nuclearwastewatch.weebly.com/assessing-nuclear-risk.html

July 5, 2026 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | Canada, politics