Nuclear energy is unlike any…

Nuclear energy is unlike any other in that if there is an accident there is a risk of lingering deadly side effects - intense long lived radiation. Thus, citizens expect extraordinary efforts for public safety including putting in place measures to protect the public in the event of a Fukushima-scale accident.

Citizens expect the government to meet or exceed international best practices for nuclear emergency response planning and preparedness wherever feasible including Switzerland's level 7 accident protocols. In addition we need to protect citizens against a nuclear accident on the Great Lake - a major supplier of drinking water for millions.

Evacuation plans need to be world class and Ontario needs to expand its evacuation zones to 20 km or more and the province needs to plan for care for those evacuated for a long period of time. Special provisions need to be in place for the vulnerable ( elderly and those who are sick or lack mobility).

Ontario’s nuclear emergency response plan should be reviewed regularly and transparently.

Emergency planning for nuclear disaster is a special responsibility given the potential catastrophic outcomes of a nuclear accident since for the most part our reactors are situated in the most densely populated parts of the Province. The plan must be excellent and the money to support it must be available. I as a citizen expect nothing less than the best.

[Original Comment ID: 210491]