97.11PU Nuclear/Energy Future
Whereas, The Atomic Energy of Canada (AECL) “concept” for the disposal of high-level nuclear wastes through burial in plutonic rock of the Precambrian Shield has not been proven to be safe and numerous deficiencies have been noted by Environment Canada, the Scientific Review Committee, independent scientists, and the public; and,
Whereas, The burial of high-level nuclear wastes leaves future generations unable to respond should an emergency arise or a safe technology for the disposal of nuclear wastes emerge; and,
Whereas, Canada and Ontario appear to be promoting the nuclear industry without the benefit of a broad-based public discussion on nuclear/energy policy as requested by the Federal Environmental Review Panel; and,
Whereas, The acceptance of the AECL burial “concept” and a move to siting will forestall investments in alternative forms of energy, safe technologies, improved on-site safety at nuclear stations, and a promised nuclear plant phaseout; and will encourage an expansion of the nuclear industry for such purposes as the destruction of nuclear wastes, such as weapons-grade plutonium; and,
Whereas, Councils of Women have for many years made themselves aware of the dangers inherent in the use of nuclear power (ICW/76); have asked for a “moratorium” on its development as an energy source (NCWC/79); have called for improved nuclear radiation exposure standards (NCWC/91); and have asked the federal and provincial governments to pursue safe alternative methods of providing and conserving energy (NCWC/74; PCWO 78/83/87); therefore, be it
Resolved, That the National Council of Women of Canada urge the Government of Canada to:
- reject as unsafe, the AECL “concept” for the burial of high-level nuclear wastes in the Precambrian shield; and,
- initiate a public policy debate, with broad public consultation, on the energy future of Canada, with specific focus on the nuclear issue; and,
- expend research moneys on a search for a safe technology to treat nuclear wastes; upgrading current nuclear-site safety; and developing alternative sources of energy; and,
- bring Canadian radiation exposure standards into conformity with those adopted by the International Radiation Protection Association of 1991, while encouraging the Association to improve these standards even further to reflect the gender and age differences of women and children; and,
- do all that is in its power to prevent the expansion of the nuclear industry.