Why Nuclear
As of September 2009, nuclear power met 15 per cent of global electricity demand with 436 operable nuclear reactors and another 50 under construction.
Canada's nuclear industry is very stringently regulated
The nuclear industry in Canada has been highly regulated for more than half a century. The regulator is called the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (the CNSC), and its sole focus is on the health and safety of persons and the environment, as well as nuclear security. The CNSC has a staff of almost 700 and it is part of the federal government. CNSC employees are highly trained and some are resident at Canada's nuclear facilities.
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The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission conducts public hearings and webcasts its hearings. |
CNSC staff conduct inspections during the construction and throughout the operating life of the nuclear stations. Key members of the operating staff of the nuclear stations must undergo CNSC examinations and be certified for their particular position.
In addition, the CNSC holds regular public meetings focusing on the operations and safety of Canada's nuclear facilities.