Kincardine mayor speaks at IAEA conference in Vienna, Austria

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) invited nuclear host communities from around the world to join them for an historic gathering from May 26-30 in Vienna, Austria.

Kincardine mayor Kenneth Craig represented the municipality to share experiences as a host municipality of Bruce Power and, along with other global nuclear hosts, help contribute to the shaping of future engagement practices.

Community leaders from 26 countries were in attendance to discuss the role of host communities in the safe, effective, and socially responsible production of nuclear energy.

The event provided a forum where discourse, transparency, engagement, connection, and education were emphasized including:
 

• Discussing best practices on topics, such as emergency preparedness and regulations
• Deepening global understanding from diverse perspectives
• Connecting with other host communities to share experiences and knowledge
• Staying informed on the ever-evolving landscape of nuclear energy

The IAEA invited Craig to provide remarks during the Mayors in Focus event at the gathering since the Municipality of Kincardine is home to one of the largest operating nuclear facilities, Bruce Power, as well as industry-leading associate agencies, such as Ontario Power Generation (OPG) and Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd. (AECL).

The municipality is also a founding member of the Canadian Association of Nuclear Host Communities (CANHC).

“Around the globe, host communities are realizing the power of shared knowledge and mutual support,” said Craig. “There is a growing international host community network which Canada is actively leading, where we are learning best practices while influencing national and international policy to ensure the consideration of local perspectives.

“We are contributing to dialogues, building a global network of host communities, and providing mentorship to locations considering new nuclear.”

The benefits and challenges of being a nuclear host municipality were a large part of the discussions. Nuclear facilities, as well as the network of nuclear-related agencies, all play an essential role in the development, deployment, and safe operation of carbon-free energy generation.

This work, when done well, includes authentic engagement, consent, and sustained support from the communities in which it is happening. The mayors and elected officials of these hosting communities are committed to collaborating with citizens, policymakers, national governments, industry leaders, and one another to ensure responsible developments.

“As a host community, we are highly aware of the vital role that nuclear energy plays in our every-day lives,” said Craig. “Our commitment is to work together to ensure we are helping to build a carbon-free, sustainable and energy rich future for all.”

For more information on the IAEA, visit www.iaea.org.



Representatives from 26 countries attend the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) conference at the end of May in Vienna, Austria


 
Kincardine mayor Kenneth Craig attends the IAEA conference, and speaks about being a nuclear host community