Engaging at the Local Level: the Work of the NWMO Municipal Forum

Abstract

Canada's plan for the long-term management of used nuclear fuel, called Adaptive Phased Management (APM), will be implemented in an informed and willing host community. As the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) designs and refines its plans and processes for selection of that community, it is critical for the organization to understand the local and community perspective. The NWMO has undertaken a number of initiatives to increase this understanding, to build relationships, and to work with municipal representatives and community leaders to develop long-term frameworks for decision-making at the local level. The activities have included seeking advice through ongoing meetings with nuclear host communities; engagement of national and provincial associations/federations; and participation in the annual conferences and trade shows of municipal associations in the four nuclear provinces (Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick). In addition to building relationships, the NWMO is increasing its knowledge about municipal structures and policy-making processes, administration, land-use and community planning, political oversight and community engagement. As interested communities come forward to learn more about APM, they may access the NWMO "Learn More" program, which makes information and funding available to assist communities and individuals in learning more about APM and the site-selection process. In 2008, the NWMO and senior municipal leaders from the four nuclear provinces agreed to form a Municipal Forum, which was launched in December of that year. The NWMO Forum was modelled, in part, on a construct in the United Kingdom known as NuLeAF, which provided local perspectives considered key to the success of the nuclear waste management initiative in that country. The NWMO Municipal Forum brings together municipal experts to provide information about best practices for communicating with local governments and their communities. The Forum members represent large and small, urban, rural and northern communities and advise the NWMO on broad policies based on their professional, political, community and personal expertise and experience. The Forum has provided valuable insights and feedback, including guidance on enhancing communications materials for municipalities, and on potential collaborative research projects for communities that choose to take part in the site-selection process. The Forum has helped the NWMO better understand how to communicate and work with municipalities, while also being an effective conduit to municipal associations, their affiliates and membership, and a wide range of professional associations, locally, provincially and nationally.