ACTION ALERT: Enact Nova Scotia's uranium moratorium into legislation

May 23, 2008

Nova Scotia’s Minister of Natural Resources David Morse has indicated that he may end the current de facto moratorium on uranium mining in Nova Scotia, as reported in the Chronicle Herald at http://www.thechronicleherald.ca/Business/1057214.html.  

Based on the minister’s comments in this article, as well as from the transcript of a discussion about Bill 58 (the private members bill introduced by MLA Graham Steele) on May 15 in the House of Assembly, it appears Minister Morse is saying that his government would only consider lifting the moratorium if these three issues were ‘resolved’: 1. that uranium mining is deemed safe by the scientific community; 2. that it would be good for Nova Scotia's economy; and 3. that Nova Scotians support the removal of this ban. He has already said that mining is safe and that it’s good for the economy, and now he wants to hear how Nova Scotians feel on this issue.

It is also important to note that during his comments in the Legislature on May 15, only one week ago, he stated over and over again that his position has remained unchanged in the media, with departmental communication, and in the House: his government is working with the current moratorium and has no interest in abandoning it.

TAKE ACTION

Minister Morse claims that he wants to hear from Nova Scotians regarding the moratorium - so it is more important than ever to make your voice heard! Send the link for this action alert along to any Nova Scotian that may be concerned about uranium mining in our province. The sample letter below has been updated from an earlier action alert to reflect this new situation, so even if you sent one in the past, send it again!

Angela Giles, Atlantic Regional Organizer, Council of Canadians

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SEND YOUR LETTER NOW:

Subject
Recipient	Premier@gov.ns.ca; MIN_EL@gov.ns.ca; MIN_DNR@gov.ns.ca
Compose your letter in the box below.
Dear Premier MacDonald, I read with shock the most recent comments by Minister Morse regarding the possibility of lifting the current de facto moratorium on uranium mining. As recently as one week ago, the Minister of Natural Resources stood in the Legislature and said that your government had no interest in lifting the moratorium. Your minister has also indicated he is confident that uranium mining is deemed to be safe by the scientific community, but who are these scientists and where are their findings? In relation to economics, I don’t believe that the short-term benefits to this province outweigh the long-term devastation to our environment, our health, or our communities. I understand that your government is calling for Nova Scotians to submit their thoughts on the uranium moratorium, be it through the Voluntary Planning sessions or other methods. I want you to know that I stand with The Council of Canadians in strong opposition to uranium mining, and against any argument suggesting this is a green energy. Uranium is a non-renewable resource that releases radioactive toxins the moment it is harvested, and creates radioactive waste with no sustainable disposal plan. Most recently, the government of British Columbia enacted a full ban on uranium exploration and development, supporting the province’s commitment of no nuclear power, and while remaining open to other mineral exploration. Recognizing that we were the first province to take a progressive stance on uranium mining, I call on you to enact this moratorium into legislation. Sincerely,
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