Durham MPP Says McGuinty Government Must Close the Deal on New Nuclear Plants

February 22, 2010

NEWS

QUEEN’S PARK – Durham MPP John O’Toole said today that when it comes to building new nuclear generating stations, the McGuinty government is still just kicking the tires.

“This government needs to close the deal on both the New Build project at Darlington and the refurbishing of the Darlington reactors,” Mr. O’Toole said. “Nuclear power is the key to thousands of skilled Ontario jobs and a reliable source of clean power for the future.”

During Question Period in the Ontario Legislature Feb. 22, Mr. O’Toole joined Energy Critic John Yakabuski in calling for the McGuinty government to make a firm commitment to both the refurbishment of existing Darlington reactors and the New Build project.

Rod Sheppard, President of the Society of Energy Professionals, has said: “If Pickering only operates to 2020, then something must be done very, very quickly to get some new construction going.”

Mr. O’Toole says he is somewhat encouraged to learn that McGuinty government intends to proceed with both projects. “But we still lack a firm commitment that will put shovels in the ground and bring jobs to the local economy.”

“Considering the enthusiasm of the McGuinty government for the $7 billion Samsung energy deal with offshore investors, I hope we can count on a prompt decision from the McGuinty government. We need a commitment that will safeguard the future of nuclear energy in Ontario,” Mr. O’Toole said.

QUOTE:
•    “This government needs to close the deal on both the New Build project at Darlington and the refurbishing of the existing Darlington reactors. So far, the McGuinty government is still kicking the tires.”  – John O’Toole, MPP – Durham

QUICK FACTS:
•    The building of two new reactors at the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station would mean 3,500 construction jobs and 1,500 operation positions.

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CONTACT:
For further information please contact:
John O’Toole, MPP – Durham (905) 697-1501 / 1-800-661-2433