Released on September 15, 2009
Saskatchewan people need more information and the province needs to take its time with future uranium development. Those were some of the key conclusions in a report prepared for the provincial government by Dan Perrins, Chair of The Future of Uranium in Saskatchewan public consultation process.
"People told me this is a very important issue for the future of the province and time needs to be taken to ensure quality information is available, people are properly consulted, and informed decisions are made," Perrins wrote in the conclusion of his report. "I look forward to future opportunities for public discussion, debate and information exchange on the future of power in Saskatchewan."
Energy and Resources Minister Bill Boyd received Perrins' final report yesterday and released it today. The report, entitled The Future of Uranium Public Consultation Process, summarizes the input received during a four-month public input process on the findings and recommendations of the Uranium Development Partnership (UDP). The report also contains recommendations regarding future consultations and the information needs of the public.
"Mr. Perrins used his extensive experience to lead the broadest and most transparent public debate on uranium development ever undertaken in Saskatchewan and his report reflects what he heard," Boyd said. "On behalf of the provincial government, I would like to thank Mr. Perrins and all those associated with these consultations for a job well done. I would also like to thank the thousands of Saskatchewan people who took part in this important process."
Boyd said that while the provincial government will review the report over the next several weeks, he noted that Perrins' recommendations provide strong direction on how this complex issue could move forward.
"When I look at this report, it's neither a green light nor a red light for future uranium development," Boyd said. "It's more like a yellow light - take any next steps with caution. Saskatchewan people are saying - take your time, get it right, consider all the options. I think that's wise counsel."
To this end, Boyd noted that the report will be forwarded to the legislative Standing Committee on Crowns and Central Agencies. The Committee will be conducting further inquiries on how the province can best meet the needs for electricity in a manner that is safe, reliable, environmentally sustainable and affordable for Saskatchewan residents.
Boyd reiterated that the provincial government will not participate in any nuclear project that puts taxpayers at financial risk.
"We share the concerns expressed by many with respect to the costs associated with large nuclear power plants," Boyd said. "Because costs of energy will change depending on the federal government's future carbon reduction measures, we need to look at all energy options to determine the best way to deliver Saskatchewan's future energy needs in the most environmentally-friendly, safe and cost-effective manner."
The Future of Uranium in Saskatchewan public input process included a stakeholder conference, 10 town hall meetings, four days of one-on-one meetings, a tour of northern communities, an online public input workbook and written submissions. More than 2,260 were received.
The report will be printed and distributed to stakeholders, to individuals who requested a hard copy, and to all public libraries around the province. In the meantime, the full report is available on the Future of Uranium in Saskatchewan website at http://www.er.gov.sk.ca/uranium-development.
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For more information, contact:
Chris Dekker
Enterprise Saskatchewan
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-933-6744
Leanne Persicke
Executive Council
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1321
Cell: 306-541-7083