{"id":92,"date":"2021-10-05T16:38:57","date_gmt":"2021-10-05T16:38:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/?page_id=92"},"modified":"2024-03-25T19:31:22","modified_gmt":"2024-03-25T23:31:22","slug":"community-engagement","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/community-engagement\/","title":{"rendered":"Community engagement"},"content":{"rendered":"

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A delegation from one <\/em>of our siting areas, <\/em>with community members from South Bruce, <\/em>Huron-Kinloss and <\/em>Brockton, visited Finland\u2019s <\/em>deep geological repository <\/em>for high-level nuclear waste. <\/em>Photo source: <\/em>Municipality of South Bruce.<\/em><\/p>\n

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Community engagement \t
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[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”2″ module_class=”row-content” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” header_5_font=”HelveticaNeue-Regular|700|||||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Throughout the year, we continued helping members of the public understand our work, ask questions and provide feedback. Strong engagement with Canadians and Indigenous peoples was especially critical in 2023 as we move closer to selecting informed and willing hosts for Canada\u2019s deep geological repository.<\/p>\n

Connecting with our international counterparts was also a priority this year. We made an important investment in 2023 in organizing delegations of Canadians and Indigenous peoples \u2014 including members from both siting areas \u2014 to travel to Finland and tour what will be the world\u2019s first deep geological repository for high-level nuclear waste. This experience provided community leaders and residents with a hands-on opportunity to learn about Finland\u2019s project and its scientific process.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Delegations from Finland, Sweden and the United States also visited both potential siting areas here in Canada, to share experiences and learnings from their own site selection processes with local and regional community members. This was in addition to another visit welcoming experts from United Kingdom\u2019s Nuclear Waste Services to discuss best practices in nuclear waste management.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Finally, we continued to foster our relationships not only with governments, but also with the nuclear industry and civil society organizations, including environmental and labour groups and think tanks. These initiatives will play an important part in building social acceptability for the project as we move closer to site selection and beyond.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”s1″ module_id=”section-1″ module_class=”toggle-section” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_class=”toggle-btn” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_font=”|300|||||||” header_3_font=”||||||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Municipal engagement activities<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”s1 content” module_class=”section-1 toggle-section toggle-content ” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/MunicipalEngagement.jpg” alt=”Northwest Nuclear Exploration Event” title_text=”Northwest Nuclear Exploration Event” force_fullwidth=”on” module_class=”share-element image-with-title_image” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_class=”image-with-title_title” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

NWMO staff engage with attendees at the Northwest Nuclear Exploration Event in the Township of Ignace.<\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” header_5_font=”HelveticaNeue-Regular|700|||||||” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

As we move closer to site selection, we remain focused on ensuring municipalities understand the technical aspects and potential benefits of Canada\u2019s plan. In 2023, we advanced negotiations around hosting agreements in both siting areas. The hosting agreements will detail the commitments made by the NWMO should the site be selected to host the project.<\/p>\n

This progress was in addition to ongoing engagement with people in both areas. Two key events in 2023 were organized in close partnership with the siting areas\u2019 municipalities and industry groups. With the NWMO\u2019s support, the Municipality of South Bruce hosted the first-ever South Bruce Nuclear Exploration Forum, while the Township of Ignace hosted the Northwest Nuclear Exploration Event. These events brought together hundreds of attendees to learn more about safety, the environment, safe transportation, international experiences, Indigenous Knowledge, the project\u2019s socio-economic impacts, regulations, the Integrated Strategy for Radioactive Waste (ISRW) and more.<\/p>\n

In South Bruce, we designed and executed the South Bruce Doorstep Discussion Initiative \u2014 our first-ever door-to-door campaign to enhance our outreach efforts within the municipality. Over the course of the summer, we visited close to 1,000 residents, successfully increasing the NWMO\u2019s visibility, building on existing relationships and beginning many new ones.<\/p>\n

This achievement was in addition to a newly designed borehole tour experience in the Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON)-South Bruce area. These tours successfully give interested community members a better sense of the area\u2019s geology, the stability of the rock and the reality of what the repository could ultimately look like.\u00a0<\/p>\n

In the northwest, we purposefully expanded our engagement efforts outside our own Learn More Centre. This included holding several \u201cGet to know the NWMO\u201d sessions at various community venues. Many of these events featured third-party speakers, offering opportunities for community members to hear from experts outside the NWMO about the project and its potential benefits.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_testimonial author=”Michael Pahor” job_title=”Site Director for South Bruce at the NWMO” portrait_url=”https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/MichaelP_pullquote_portrait.jpg” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Our work this year was an important reminder that face-to-face conversations can drive stronger relationships and mutual understanding. Our first-ever doorstep initiative was a major success, allowing us to connect directly with more people in the community.<\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_testimonial author=”Joanne Jacyk” job_title=”Site Director for Ignace at the NWMO” portrait_url=”https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/JoanneJ_pullquote_portrait.jpg” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Engaging with people and organizations in this area, including critical voices, is essential in our consent-based siting process. We\u2019re proud to keep finding new ways to answer important questions, address common misconceptions and share learnings about the project.<\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_testimonial][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”s2″ module_id=”section-2″ module_class=”toggle-section” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_class=”toggle-btn” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_font=”|300|||||||” header_3_font=”||||||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Indigenous engagement<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”s2 content” module_class=”section-2 toggle-section toggle-content” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/IndigenousEngagement.jpg” alt=”Little Native Hockey League event” title_text=”Little Native Hockey League event” force_fullwidth=”on” module_class=”share-element image-with-title_image” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_class=”image-with-title_title” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Amy Ingram (right), Senior Liaison Advisor in Indigenous Relations at the NWMO, with Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare, attend a Little Native Hockey League event.<\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

As our work advances and we move closer to site selection, we continued to seek to understand how Canada\u2019s plan for used nuclear fuel might benefit each region under consideration and be respectful of the rights of Indigenous peoples.<\/p>\n

We actively engaged with Indigenous peoples and communities, both on and off reserve, to provide information about Canada\u2019s plan throughout the year. This included hosting and attending community events, open houses, drop-in sessions, cultural gatherings, youth conferences, cultural awareness workshops, assemblies, conferences and special occasions.<\/p>\n

In southern Ontario, we also continued our virtual home visits, an opportunity to build relationships with Indigenous peoples. This initiative began during the pandemic in 2020, and through it, we meet with groups or families virtually, sharing information with participants and giving them the opportunity to ask questions.<\/p>\n

Through our work with First Nation and M\u00e9tis communities, we continue to listen to concerns and learn what is important to community members, to understand how the project might benefit each region under consideration and to be respectful of the rights of Indigenous peoples. We are also aligning with Indigenous Knowledge in both technical safety and community well-being aspects of the site selection process.<\/p>\n

The interests, concerns and counsel of Indigenous peoples are integral to the NWMO\u2019s work. We are grateful to be able to engage with Indigenous peoples on a regular basis.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Lise Morton” job_title=”Vice-President of Site Selection at the NWMO” portrait_url=”https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/LiseM_pullquote_portrait.jpg” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Listening to and learning from Indigenous peoples continues to be integral to our work at the NWMO. We are grateful for the opportunity to be present at community events and cultural celebrations and look forward to continued collaboration.<\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_testimonial][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”s3″ module_id=”section-3″ module_class=”toggle-section” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_class=”toggle-btn” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_font=”|300|||||||” header_3_font=”||||||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Youth engagement<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”s3 content” module_class=” section-3 toggle-section toggle-content” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/YouthEngagement.jpg” alt=”GENESIS class from Sacred Heart High School at NWMO Discovery and Demonstration Centre” title_text=”GENESIS class from Sacred Heart High School at NWMO Discovery and Demonstration Centre” force_fullwidth=”on” module_class=”share-element image-with-title_image” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_class=”image-with-title_title” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Thomas Reilly, <\/em>Senior Scientist in Safety Assessment at the NWMO, presents a nuclear fuel bundle to a GENESIS class from Sacred Heart <\/em>High School in South Bruce as part of the NWMO Discovery and Demonstration Centre tour.<\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Our work is multi-generational, which means supporting the communities of tomorrow is a priority \u2014 including through youth-focused programs. With that in mind, we built on our long-standing connections with people under 35 in 2023.<\/p>\n

Among residents in both siting areas, creating opportunities for young people to live and work where they grew up is top-of-mind. It is why we are actively investing in the workforce of tomorrow, especially by supporting education across a number of subjects, including science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning.<\/p>\n

In both siting areas, we continued to invest in educational programs that support youth skills in geology, environment, technology, media and Indigenous teachings. Much of this work focused on building transferable skills and training to equip community members to work at the eventual Centre of Expertise. We also supported learning about the nuclear industry and our work through visits to nuclear facilities and our Oakville Discovery and Demonstration Centre.<\/p>\n

Our annual youth engagement report<\/a> outlines the NWMO\u2019s activities and educational initiatives, partnerships, sponsorships and donations. Engaging young people will continue to be a priority as we move closer to site selection and the years to follow.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_testimonial author=”John Kielty” job_title=”Senior Advisor in Municipal Relations at the NWMO” portrait_url=”https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/JohnK_pullquote_portrait.jpg” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Canada\u2019s plan is multi-generational, and the work we do now to educate and engage youth will benefit us all in the years to come.<\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_testimonial][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”s4″ module_id=”section-4″ module_class=”toggle-section” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_class=”toggle-btn” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_font=”|300|||||||” header_3_font=”||||||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Digital engagement<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”s4 content” module_class=” section-4 toggle-section toggle-content” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Our digital channels have been an important tool for sharing information about the NWMO\u2019s activities, announcements and engagement activities this year, along with those of our partners in Canada and around the world.<\/p>\n

In 2023, we modernized our website to better engage our online community about our work, as well as enhance our cybersecurity. In addition, through our multiple social media channels, we connected with online community members, including in and around siting areas, about events, community initiatives and project information. Social media has remained a key channel for answering questions and addressing misinformation, and we continuously experiment with new formats of content to increase audience engagement.<\/p>\n

By strengthening our efforts throughout 2023, we have increased our audience on social media and look forward to continuing to inform and engage with people who want to learn more about the NWMO\u2019s work.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”2″ module_class=”row-content” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/DigitalEngagement.jpg” alt=”Some NWMO social media content in 2023″ title_text=”Some NWMO social media content in 2023″ force_fullwidth=”on” module_class=”share-element image-with-title_image” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_class=”image-with-title_title” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

The NWMO was active on social media throughout 2023, sharing educational content about used nuclear fuel and Canada\u2019s plan, and stories from siting area communities.<\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”s4″ module_id=”section-4″ module_class=”toggle-section” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_class=”toggle-btn” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_font=”|300|||||||” header_3_font=”||||||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Giving back through sponsorships and donations<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”s4 content” module_class=” section-4 toggle-section toggle-content” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”2″ module_class=”row-content” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” border_radii=”off||||” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Sponsorships.jpg” alt=”Big Brothers Big Sisters Golf Tournament” title_text=”Big Brothers Big Sisters Golf Tournament” force_fullwidth=”on” module_class=”share-element image-with-title_image” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_class=”image-with-title_title” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

The NWMO was a title sponsor of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Golf Tournament in Wingham, Ont., <\/em>where local youth participated with staff from our South Bruce team.<\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

A core part of our work is ensuring that participation in the project fosters the long-term well-being of the siting areas. This came to life in 2023 through continued support for programs centred on education, environment, cultural initiatives and youth sports.<\/p>\n

Sponsorship programs demonstrate our commitment to being a good corporate neighbour in and around the potential host communities. In fact, 2023 marked an increase in the number of local and regional initiatives that we supported when compared to recent years. Overall, we funded 114 local and regional initiatives that are directly supporting the well-being of Indigenous and municipal communities.<\/p>\n

A notable new partnership was with Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN), supporting its Indigenous Day Live Event. This new relationship also demonstrated our ongoing commitment to Reconciliation.<\/p>\n

We also continued supporting the GENESIS program in the SON-South Bruce area, which provides hands-on experience in environmental studies to high-school students.<\/p>\n

Key sponsorship agreements were also renewed with Right To Play Canada, Scientists in School, Shad Canada, the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund, and Science North.<\/p>\n

Several of these organizations\u2019 activities reflect our interest in fostering a culture of science and in supporting youth pursuits in science and technology.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”s5″ module_id=”section-5″ module_class=”toggle-section” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_class=”toggle-btn” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_font=”|300|||||||” header_3_font=”||||||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Government engagement<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”s5 content” module_class=” section-5 toggle-section toggle-content” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Fostering relationships with government \u2014 inside our borders and internationally \u2014 and ensuring they are up to date on project advancements is essential to building support for Canada\u2019s plan.<\/p>\n

As we prepare for site selection and the next steps in the regulatory decision-making process, we regularly engaged governments and municipal associations across Canada, so they can in turn make informed decisions.<\/p>\n

In 2023, our strides on this front apply to Canada\u2019s plan now and the NWMO\u2019s evolving mandate. The strength of our efforts to build trust with government became clear this fall as the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources endorsed the NWMO\u2019s recommendations in the Integrated Strategy for Radioactive Waste.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Dakota Kochie” job_title=”Director of Government and External Relations at the NWMO” portrait_url=”https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/DakotaK_pullquote_portrait.jpg” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

We continued to work closely with elected officials this year. Our notable co-operation agreements with other countries and progress on the Integrated Strategy for Radioactive Waste reflect our ongoing commitment to engagement.<\/em><\/p>\n

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Partnership<\/h2>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”s5 content” module_class=” section-6 toggle-section toggle-content” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

The NWMO follows a partnership road map that outlines how we are working closely with communities in each siting area to develop and refine the vision each one has for the project.<\/p>\n

In 2023, our focus was on developing partnership agreements with potential host communities. These agreements outline roles, investments and expectations that we will have for each other once the site is selected. They also detail how we move forward together in the regulatory process.<\/p>\n

Additionally, we made vital progress on planning the Centre of Expertise, a multimillion-dollar investment that will be designed in detail and constructed in the selected siting area. Regardless of which site is selected, the Centre of Expertise will be an anchor for the community.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Agree on common values and principles<\/tspan> <\/tspan><\/text>to guide partnership discussions<\/tspan><\/text><\/g><\/g>the NWMO's and community's interests,<\/tspan><\/text>Develop the project vision that will meet<\/tspan> <\/tspan><\/text>and potential partners as well<\/tspan><\/text><\/g><\/g>with whom, at what level,<\/tspan><\/text>in what combination, and when<\/tspan><\/text>Identify required partnerships<\/tspan> <\/tspan><\/text><\/g><\/g>Identify and deliver investments <\/tspan><\/text>that drive capability and<\/tspan><\/text>economic prosperity for partners<\/tspan><\/text><\/g><\/g>Through a schedule developed and<\/tspan><\/text>agreed upon with partners<\/tspan><\/text><\/g><\/g>

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||on||||||” text_font_size=”15px” text_line_height=”1.4em” text_orientation=”center” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Starting from the bottom and moving upwards, the road map guides our discussions about partnership with communities.<\/em><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

It will be home to active technical and social research, as well as technological demonstration programs, with contributions from scientists and other experts in a wide variety of disciplines from both the NWMO and around the world. An engineering test facility will be located within the Centre of Expertise to continue the development of materials and equipment to be used in the repository, and to support the construction and operation of the facility in the future.<\/p>\n

Over the past year, we built momentum by developing the facility requirements and the contracting strategy for the Centre of Expertise, which will be an important landmark for local residents and visitors from around the world. In August, we published a report on the initial municipal visioning for the centre, summarizing the work completed with both siting areas over the past three years. That included online and in-person engagement and written input on the centre\u2019s role in community well-being and its design, including feedback on the proposed architectural concept renderings. Communities will continue to be engaged throughout the design and other steps in the lead-up to the centre\u2019s opening.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

A delegation from one of our siting areas, with community members from South Bruce, Huron-Kinloss and Brockton, visited Finland\u2019s deep geological repository for high-level nuclear waste. Photo source: Municipality of South Bruce.Community engagement \t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\ue059<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\tThroughout the year, we continued helping members of the public understand our work, ask questions and provide feedback. Strong engagement with Canadians […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-92","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/92","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=92"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/92\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6750,"href":"https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/92\/revisions\/6750"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/annualreport.nwmo.ca\/2023\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=92"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}