Concerns re DGR for Nuclear Waste proposed by NWMO near Ignace ON

Dear Sirs/Madams:

Being a resident in the area I am deeply concerned about the proposed deep geological repository for nuclear waste proposed by NWMO near Ignace ON. 
 

I am concerned about the lack of inclusion and engagement of impacted parties. Besides local communities in Northwestern Ontario, I am concerned that indigenous communities will also be highly impacted in terms of their rights and interests on the land. It is my understanding that NWMO Has negated their opportunity to provide critical input regarding land use, and resources in their traditional territories. Specifically, Eagle Lake First Nation has filed a judicial review and opposition, and they have not been properly acknowledged. Their opposition was not included in the project description and this to me, amounts to withholding of information from the public.

I am also concerned about the potential impact on the ground water, specifically the Winnipeg River watershed this watershed is relied upon by close to 1 million people considering that the City of Winnipeg also relies on this water source.

My third concern relates to the transportation of the dangerous waste, which is also not considered as a factor in this review. For the people of this area, this is absolutely essential. We see accidents every day on the highways that this waste would travel and we know the danger that most certainly will happen over the length of time it will take to transport this waste. There have been former accidents, at least one related to nuclear waste on the highways, and that has to be taken into consideration. The consequences of a spill would be catastrophic. 

Finally, I would like to say that 30 days is not sufficient time for the public to review and submit comments. The project description lacks information for such a complex and consequential project.

Thank you for considering my comments.

Michelle Shephard