Proposed Deep Geological Repository

Dear Members of the Review Panel:

I appreciate the opportunity to comment on the Draft Integrated Tailored Impact Statement Guidelines for the proposed Deep Geological Repository Project.  I live on Dinorwic Lake approximately 15 miles downstream from the proposed site of the deep geological repository for high level nuclear waste and have residential property in the city of Dryden.

The draft review guidelines of the Impact Assessment review process leave out several different important issues.  It does not require enough information from the NWMO about their proposed project and how it will affect people, the environment and the surrounding communities.

I am very concerned that my family as well as most residents in the area did not have a chance to vote for or against this proposed project. The DGR selection process is flawed when a small number of people in the town of Ignace and Wabigoon Lake Reserve (WLON) members were the only ones allowed by NWMO to vote for something that could affect the health of all the people and environment in northwest Ontario.

The DGR project would put undo pressure on the local healthcare system that is already over capacity. Residents should not have to suffer from even less timely heath care than they have today.  Funding would be necessary for additional staff and facilities. 

The Impact Statement must include a detailed assessment of how this project will affect the municipal infrastructure and services in Dryden, including roads, water, sewer and emergency services.  There must be funding for this expanded capacity. The current city residents should not have the burden of increased taxes to support this.

Transportation of the nuclear waste is of great concern; in-depth details must be included in the project review.

A more detailed description of the operation and safty procedures at the burial site should be required.  These operations begin with deliveries to the site, unloading, repackaging, placement, monitoring and retrieving in case of a failed container.  Specific information on water monitoring procedures of nearby lakes and streams should be included.

Thank you for considering my comments and concerns.

Steve Riggins Dinorwic Lake Ontario