Anti-nuclear protesters are upset over the proposed restart of the Pickering A reactors, as expected; it gives them a new focal point for fund-raising campaigns. Today's Toronto Star carries the following at http://www.thestar.com/editorial/news/990907NEW04_CI-NUKE7.html
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Plan for restarting nuclear plant angers critics awaiting impact study
By Stan Josey
Toronto Star Durham Region Bureau Chief
Local nuclear critics are furious over a decision to proceed with the restart of the Pickering A nuclear plant without waiting for a planned environmental assessment.
``I think it is hypocritical and a mockery of the nuclear regulatory system,'' said Irene Kock, of the Durham-based Nuclear Awareness Project. ``Potentially, the environmental assessment could result in a decision to close the facility permanently,'' she said. ``I don't know why many millions of dollars are being spent on what could turn out to be a dud.''
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Dave Martin, of the Nuclear Awareness Project, said the decision appears to fly in the face of a demand by the federal nuclear regulatory agency that an environmental assessment be done before an operating licence amendment is granted to allow reopening.
``Our position is that (these units) are too old and too dangerous and too expensive to operate,'' Martin said.
However, officials of the Atomic Energy Control Board, the regulatory agency, say they are not concerned about the latest developments.
Spokesperson Sunni Locatelli said the utility's recent actions represent a commitment to proceed with the environmental assessment. In the next couple of weeks, the control board expects to set out guidelines for the study, which will include ``extensive public consultation,'' she said.
``I think the (Ontario Power Generation) board is being very conservative and very cautious, and rightfully so, in its advance planning for a potential restart of the station.''
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my own $0.02
Morgan Brown