CLC reviews past, ongoing and future engagement initiatives

SOUTH BRUCE—The Community Liaison Committee (CLC) reviewed past, ongoing, and future engagement initiatives that the Municipality of South Bruce has undertaken regarding the Nuclear Waste Management Organizations (NWMO) plan for used nuclear fuel.

“The SBNET is a department within the Municipality of South Bruce that supports the CLC in fulfilling its mandate by connecting with, providing educational opportunities to, listening to and building capacity in the community. The presentation by staff reviewed efforts in each of the areas described,” a press release from the municipality said.

Several members of SBNET outlined the different educational opportunities undertaken with the community, including subject matter experts, studies, tours, and trips.

An essential aspect of the SBNET’s purpose is listening to the community. Surveys, CLC questions and answers, Switchboard, and community consultation events have yielded meaningful input that the SBNET has incorporated into its operations. For example, the community has demonstrated that household mailers, online sources, and in-person events are the preferred methods of learning about the Project. Learning opportunities continue to be offered by the municipality through the SBNET, as well as by the NWMO and other organizations.

The NWMO’s commitment to capital is a significant boon for the municipality, as it supports numerous community services, infrastructure projects, training, and more. This funding, provided through the Multi-Year Funding Agreement, Near-Term Investment Fund, Community Well-Being Fund, and the Early Investment in Education and Skills Fund, is a testament to the NWMO’s dedication to the community’s well-being and development.

During the presentation and in a report later in the meeting, staff highlighted details about the upcoming South Bruce Nuclear Exploration Forum: Safety and Opportunities being held May 15th at the Mildmay Carrick Recreation Centre. The Forum, a free and inclusive in-person event, will feature panel presentations and an exhibition area where residents can engage with subject matter experts about topics related to the NWMO Project, with a focus on deep geological repository safety and potential opportunities. Additional information about the event can be found on the municipal website at www.southbruce.ca/Forum. Registration is strongly recommended to ensure everyone’s participation.

Cory Bilyea, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Wingham Advance Times