Launch of forum to explore Saskatchewan’s nuclear future

[Oscar]

Launch of forum to explore Saskatchewan’s nuclear future

MEDIA RELEASE - November 23, 2005

The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM), the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA), and the University of Regina (U of R) today announced that they have joined forces to put on a forum on nuclear energy January 16th to 18th, 2006 in Regina.

“This conference will look at all aspects of the nuclear energy industry, from mining and processing, to power generation and disposal,” said SARM President Neal Hardy. “There are many different perspectives on the issue, and we want to explore what is best for all the people of Saskatchewan.”

"SUMA and SARM have an interest in economic development in Saskatchewan," said SUMA President Don Schlosser, " We want to see, through an informed and open public discussion, if an expansion of the nuclear industry is a safe and viable option to create jobs in our communities."

The U of R’s Vice-President (Research and International) Allan Cahoon says the time is right for science and research to guide a public discussion on nuclear energy. “The University has a responsibility to its community, to use its expertise to stimulate dialogue and foster discussion,” he said. “Faced with the issue of climate change, and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, we need to look at all our options, and discuss them objectively based on the science.”

The agenda includes provincial, national, and international experts.

Conference registration materials and a full agenda are available on www.sasknuclearfuture.ca.

For more information contact:
Arita McPherson, SARM, (306) 757-3579, or (306) 533-8953 (cellular)
Cam Baker, SUMA, (306) 525-4389
Jim Duggleby, U of R (306) 585-5439