There is no conflict of interest with Dryden Council accepting financial support from the Nuclear Waste Management Organization.
That message was made loud and clear by Council last week during a public engagement session surrounding the proposed underground repository in the Ignace area.
Norm Bush says the ‘Learn More Funding’ is critical in education and research efforts.
“What I see is a judicious use of funds for learning and education. It doesn’t make sense to me to go to the taxpayers for hundreds of thousands of dollars to educate ourselves for a project that may or may not happen.”
Bush adds the reality is they can’t afford to fund education and research to keep Council, staff and community members informed.
Mayor Greg Wilson says the City has received roughly $1.27 million since 2014.
NWMO has also issued other small grants for area projects as well as COVID relief.
Wilson stressed Dryden has only committed to learning more about the project and its potential impact on community safety and well-being.
He adds the City and the NWMO have been very clear that the ‘Learn More Funding’ agreement does not constitute Dryden’s community support for the project and having Ignace become a host site.
Members of Council answered several questions and heard the thoughts of local residents at the engagement session.
Both sides of the project were also provided an opportunity to answer questions.
To view the entire meeting, visit December 7 Council Engagement Session Video
