Encouraging learning about Canada’s plan for the safe, long-term management of used nuclear fuel includes being present and active in communities engaged in the site selection process. To this end, the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) has re-opened our Learn More Centres in the Municipality of South Bruce and the Township of Ignace, following recommendations and advice from the Ontario government and public health officials.

The Learn More Centres are designed to support increasingly detailed studies and ongoing learning about the project with people in each potential siting area. They were temporarily closed this past March due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.

“We remain committed to protecting people and the environment, and will continue to monitor advice from government and health authorities to ensure we are making appropriate adjustments to our plans as needed,” said Rachelle Davenport, Relationship Manager for the Northwest region at the NWMO.

To ensure the safety of employees and the people we work with, we provided local staff with training on new procedures and safety protocols related to COVID-19. We are providing personal protective equipment to staff and put in place signage to ensure physical distancing is maintained at all times. The number of visitors at any one time is restricted to two in South Bruce and four in Ignace, to accommodate physical distancing given the size and layout of each office space.

“We are here for our communities and we look forward to continuing the ongoing dialogue and answering your questions about Canada’s plan,” said Cherie Leslie, Senior Engagement Advisor, Southwestern Ontario, at the NWMO.

The NWMO is taking a phased and gradual approach to re-opening. Our Oakville proof test facility was the first to re-open in June.

The Municipality of South Bruce and the Township of Ignace are both involved in the NWMO’s site selection process for a deep geological repository for Canada’s used nuclear fuel.