The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) joined international radioactive waste management organizations in Seoul from June 24 to 27, to participate in the 9th International Symposium on Safety Improvement and Stakeholder Confidence in Radioactive Waste Management (SaRaM).
The symposium provided an opportunity to share our expertise as we advance Canada’s plan for a deep geological repository for used nuclear fuel, as well as the chance to learn from our partners who are advancing similar programs around the world.
Jamie Matear, Director of Municipal Relations and Transportation at the NWMO, shared how dialogue, transparency and local participation have helped shape understanding of the planned Canadian deep geological repository in northwestern Ontario.
During the symposium, Matear highlighted the importance of early and sustained engagement with Indigenous Peoples, communities, municipal leaders, residents and local organizations — engagement that was key to Canada’s successful site selection process.
Also in attendance at the conference was Councillor John Taddeo of Ignace. In late 2024, Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation and the Township of Ignace both agreed to support advancing into the regulatory decision-making phase of our work. His participation underscored the value of hearing directly from municipal partners involved in the process, and how local leadership and community voices are central to building understanding.
The NWMO’s participation at SaRaM builds on our strong record of international collaboration with counterparts in countries such as South Korea, Finland, France, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States. Through these partnerships, we exchange knowledge, strengthen technical understanding and share best practices in repository design, safety case development and public engagement.
As Canada advances its plan for the safe, long-term management of used nuclear fuel, the NWMO will continue working with communities, Indigenous Peoples and international partners to share information, listen to perspectives and incorporate lessons learned.