The Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation will now have a significant say in operations at the Chalk River Nuclear Labs.
Pikwakanagan, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, and Atomic Energy of Canada Limited have agreed to a long-term relationship centered around updating and monitoring the management of radioactive waste, as well as other collaborations.
The agreement specifically focuses on creating a state of the art Near Surface Disposal Facility to clean up and safely house low level radioactive waste currently being stored on site in various older, outdated facilities.
Chief Greg Sarazin says that the deal means that they will have a direct role in future activities at the labs, with traditional knowledge and values incorporated into CNL work while also protecting Algonquin rights and the environment.
He notes that after 80 years of CNL operation on unceded territory without consent or consideration, “the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation are no longer on the outside looking in.”
Fred Dermarkar, the President and CEO of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited, calls the deal a milestone in the relationship between the parties, adding, “Reconciliation is a journey – and the long-term relationship agreement between AOPFN, AECL, and CNL is an important step in healing as well as building trust, founded on transparency and mutual respect.”
Joe McBrearty, CNL President and CEO, says that they “believe that the inclusion of Indigenous knowledge into our projects and across all of our operations will help to improve the way we do our work,” adding that he is excited to work towards a shared vision as part of the agreement and CNL’s Reconciliation Action Plan.
(written by Kasey Egan)
