Canada's government stresses support of nuclear industry

Canada's Minister of Natural Resources and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario Greg Rickford stressed the government's support for the nuclear industry during the 2015 Canadian Nuclear Association Conference and Trade Show on Thursday.

During an address at the conference, Rickford discussed significant investments to secure a more stable global supply of medical isotopes, as well as restructuring Atomic Energy of Canada Limited to bring private sector rigor and efficiency to its management while creating value. Such government actions are providing lasting growth in the nuclear sector, and have supported Canada's continued driving leadership in nuclear research and technology, Rickford said. 

"Canada's nuclear industry is a key part of Canada's low-emitting energy mix and a major contributor to our status as a world leader in clean energy,” Rickford said. “Our government will continue to support jobs and growth in the nuclear sector by advancing research and trade opportunities within our world-class safety regime."

In addition, the government is promoting international cooperation and trade for nuclear products and services with the United States, China and India that will create new opportunities throughout Canada's nuclear industry. 

Rockford said the Canadian government continues to demonstrate high environmental safety priorities with the Energy Safety and Security Act, which mandates a substantial increase of absolute liability of nuclear facility operators from $75 million to $1 billion for injury and damage.