Members of Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation (WLON) voted in a willingness decision/referendum to determine if the Nation will progress into a site characterization process for WMO's proposed Deep Geological Repository (DR) in
WLON's traditional territory.
For over a decade, Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation has been involved in discussions and information sharing through a
"Learn More Agreement" with the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (www.nwmo.ca). This has enabled WLON's members and leadership to thoroughly examine what potentially hosting a DR could mean to the community.
WLON's Chief and Council accepted the responsibility to learn about the WMO process as a matter of principle.
Chief Clayton Wetelainen announced: "Our Nation has spoken and the outcome was YES. We have been involved in this process for over 12 years and our members have decided to continue on this path. As Anishinaabe we have a sacred relationship with the land. We belong to the land, and we have a sacred duty to protect the land for all our relations and for generations yet to come."
Pending the WMO site selection decision, WLON's yes vote reflects the Nation's commitment to thoroughly explore the project's feasibility through a rigorous regulatory process that upholds WON's Anishinaabe laws and values. The yes vote does not signify approval of the project; rather, it demonstrates the Nation's willingness to enter the next phase of in-depth environmental and technical assessments, to determine safety and site suitability.
WLON's Chief and Council issued the following statement: "It may take a decade for WMO to finalize their plan, complete the necessary studies and assessments, and obtain permits. This is just the beginning of a long process, and our Nation will be leading every step of the way. WLON is committed to prioritizing safety and environmental protection throughout this process."