The Joint Chiefs and Councils Statement on South Bruce's Willingness to Host the NWMO Deep Geological Repository
he Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON) Joint Chiefs and Councils have been following the Municipality of South Bruce’s referendum on the willingness to host the deep geological repository (DGR) project. We understand that the results are now in.
The referendum is an expression of the interests and views of the residents of South Bruce. The referendum results do not affect SON’s ongoing evaluation of the Nuclear Waste Management Organization’s (NWMO) proposal to build a DGR in our Territory near Teeswater, Ontario. We will continue to thoroughly examine the potential impacts and benefits that hosting such a project may have on our Territory and on our People through our independent process, as the rights holders of the Territory and as an authority within our Territory. We will continue to work with NWMO in good faith to ensure mutual commitments in this regard are upheld.
We want to take this opportunity to reiterate several key points:
- SON’s Role in the Decision-Making Process: SON consent is required before the site in SON Territory can be selected. SON has not yet decided on whether we agree to be considered a willing host. South Bruce’s referendum does not impact SON’s process or undermine SON’s right to decide.
- SON Membership Decides: The decision as to whether SON is a willing host rests with our Members and are working to gather all the information necessary for our Members to make an informed decision.
- Membership Engagement: We will not ask our Members to make a willingness decision until full consultation and engagement has occurred with our community.
Our path forward will be determined by what is best for our People, Territory and future, guided by the input and direction of our Members. We value your input, concerns, and perspectives, and we will continue to prioritize your voices throughout this journey.
We express our gratitude to our Membership for your ongoing support and dedication to the well-being of our communities and our Territory. Together, we will navigate these complex issues with thoughtfulness, respect, a commitment to environmental stewardship and safeguarding the rights and interests of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation. The SON Joint Chiefs and Councils are committed to ensuring that our Members are actively involved in the process.
Chi-miigwetch,
Ogimaa Greg Nadjiwon (Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation) & Ogimaa Conrad Ritchie (Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation)
