The ongoing debate over Canada’s proposed deep geological repository for nuclear waste has taken a significant step forward, with Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation voting to move to the next phase of the site slection process.
Wabigoon Lake Chief Clayton Wetelainen announced that his community near Dryden voted “overwhelmingly” in favor of advancing to the next stage in the Nuclear Waste Management Organization’s repository process. This places Wabigoon Lake among three communities willing to host the facility, alongside Ignace and South Bruce.
“Our Nation has spoken and the outcome was YES. We have been involved in this process for over 12 years and our members have decided to continue on this path. As Anishinaabe we have a sacred relationship with the land. We belong to the land, and we have a sacred duty to protect the land for all our relations and for generations yet to come,” said Chief Clayton Wetelainen.
While Wabigoon Lake’s referendum reflected strong local support, the South Bruce decision in October was much narrower, with just 51.2 per cent of voters approving the project, a slim 78-vote margin. Wabigoon’s decision moves the project closer to realization but does not guarantee that either site, near Ignace or in South Bruce, will be chosen.
"Pending the NWMO site selection decision, WLON’s yes vote reflects the Nation’s commitment to thoroughly explore the project’s feasibility through a rigorous regulatory process that upholds WLON’s Anishinaabe laws and values," the Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation said in a statement. "The yes vote does not signify approval of the project; rather, it demonstrates the Nation’s willingness to enter the next phase of in-depth environmental and technical assessments, to determine safety and site suitability."
The spotlight now shifts to the Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON), whose decision could be pivotal for the future of the project, particularly in South Bruce.
SON has not set a date to decide whether it will be a willing host, but its consent is essential for the project to move forward in the region. SON’s Joint Chiefs and Councils have reiterated that they are taking an independent and thorough approach, prioritizing consultation and environmental stewardship.