Uranium Mining: Opponents Getting Organized
Published by MAC on 2007-06-22Source: Conservation Council of New Brunswick Ne
URANIUM MINING: OPPONENTS GETTING ORGANIZED
Conservation Council of New Brunswick News Release
For immediate publication
22nd June 2007
Moncton, June 22 2007 - The Petitcodiac Riverkeeper and the Conservation Council of New Brunswick announced today that they are joining forces in support of a ban on all mining exploration in New Brunswick watersheds.
"When it comes to our watersheds, and particularly our main sources of drinking water, our tolerance to risk must be zero," pointed out Michel Desjardins, Chairman of the Petitcodiac Riverkeeper.
The two organizations are particularly concerned by the province's announcement that an exploration permit has been granted to CVRD Inco Limited, a prospecting company looking for uranium deposits near Turtle Creek.
"Our research on this issue shows that the history of uranium mining exploitation in Canada does little to reassure the public. For example, in 1989, two million litres of radioactive water spilled into Wollaston Lake in Saskatchewan as a result of uranium mining activity. We also know that,
in 1976, all fifty-five miles of the Serpent River system near Elliot Lake, Ontario, were badly contaminated by uranium mining. Why take a risk, any risk at all when it comes to our water, especially our drinking water?" questioned Mr. Coon.
According to the two representatives, other groups share this concern. Public meetings have already been held in the Cocagne area, where many properties have been earmarked by prospectors. The two groups plan to rally associations and individuals concerned with this issue to create a common front. "We propose to create a coalition to oppose uranium exploration and mining in all provincial watersheds," added Michel Desjardins.
In Nova Scotia, a moratorium on uranium exploration and mining has been in place since 1985.
The organizations used the opportunity to issue a challenge to the Premier. "We challenge Premier Graham to join us on a uranium mission in northern Saskatchewan. Mr. Graham should see for himself how uranium threatens the health of mine workers and in communities surrounding the mines" said Desjardins.
Related Documents:
The Adverse Affects of Mining Uranium [PDF]
http://www.conservationcouncil.ca/archives/2007/pdf/Uranium_backgrounder.pdf
For more information, contact:
David Coon, Policy Director
Conservation Council of New Brunswick
(506) 458-8747
Michel Desjardins, Chairman
Petitcodiac Riverkeeper
T: 389-8221
Cell : 851-1580