Nunavut to hold public forums on uranium

How should Nunavut develop its rich deposits of uranium, a radioactive mineral that can be processed for use in nuclear power plants and weapons production. Nunavummiut can say what they think about uranium at public forums which will take place in Iqaluit, Baker Lake and Cambridge Bay and at a new website. (FILE PHOTO)

The Government of Nunavut plans to hold public forums to develop a position and policy on uranium in the territory, Premier Eva Aariak said March 7 during her minister’s address to the Nunavut legislature.

“Many Nunavummiut have strong opinions about uranium mining in our territory and others may want to have the opportunity to receive more information to form an opinion,” Aariak said.

The forums will take place March 16 to 17 in Iqaluit, on March 30 to 31 in Baker Lake, and on April 12 to 13 in Cambridge Bay.

Each forum will include an open house where people can gather information. Experts and panelists will make presentations and members of the public will have the chance to voice their views and opinions, or ask questions of the panelists during a meeting, Aariak said.

Panelists will include Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., Nunavut Makitagunarningit, the NWT & Nunavut Chamber of Mines, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, and Golder Associates.

“I thank the organizations who are coming together, despite their differing viewpoints, to help create an effective public dialogue about this important issue,” Aariak said.

To ensure that every community, Aariak has asked each mayor to nominate an individual who will have their travel costs to a regional forum.

People not able to attend the public meetings may consult the GN’s new website about uranium, launched March 7.

“Everyone is encouraged to learn about uranium by reading the information on the website. Then, to participate in the process by telling us what they think about uranium in Nunavut,” Aariak said.

Feedback can also be sent to the GN by phone, e-mail, fax and by letter, she said.

“I encourage all Nunavummiut to take this opportunity to voice their thoughts and opinions, to assist our government as it forms its position on uranium,” Aariak said.