CNA Welcomes Government Support to Enhance Nuclear Security Worldwide

OTTAWA, March 26, 2014 /CNW/ - The Canadian Nuclear Association (CNA) welcomes Prime Minister Stephen Harper's announcement to contribute $28 million to increase the security of nuclear facilities and radioactive sources, and prevent illegal trafficking of nuclear and radioactive materials around the world.

The announcement was made on March 25, during the Nuclear Security Summit (NSS) in The Hague, Netherlands, where leaders from 53 countries gathered to discuss ways to strengthen nuclear security and reduce the ongoing threat of nuclear terrorism.

The funds will be channeled through Canada's Global Partnership Program (GPP), which was established in 2002 as a way to support international nuclear security efforts.

"Canada is a world leader in ensuring the security of its nuclear facilities and materials," said CNA President Dr. John Barrett. "Our success is thanks to the government's continued support, through programs such as Canada's GPP, as well as the nuclear industry's commitment to continuously implement new security measures."

The NSS is organized in conjunction with the Nuclear Industry Summit, as contributions from the worldwide nuclear industry are recognized and strongly valued.

A portion of the GPP funds will be allocated to developing senior level training courses and instruction methodologies related to nuclear security; a project that will involve direct participation from WINS and Canadian nuclear industry leader Bruce Power.

The CNA represents 30,000 Canadian men and women who mine uranium, design and service reactors, generate electricity, advance nuclear medicine and export Canadian scientific and technological expertise.

SOURCE: Canadian Nuclear Association

Erin Polka, Communications Officer, 613-237-4262