Organization of CANDU Industries applauds federal government's commitment to
the restructuring of AECL

PICKERING, ON, March 5 /CNW/ - The Organization of CANDU Industries (OCI) applauds the federal government's support for Canada's nuclear industry with its increased focus on preparing AECL for restructuring.

"The nuclear renaissance is occurring around the world and if Canada is to benefit we need to attract suitable investors to the CANDU technology," says OCI President Dr. Neil Alexander. "The nuclear industry is on the verge of a dramatic expansion as countries around the world look to nuclear power as a reliable source of safe power that has virtually no effect on climate change. CANDU is one of the few nuclear reactor designs suitable for the renaissance and they have a worldwide reputation for safety and performance. Canada also has a well-earned reputation for delivering CANDU reactors on-time, and on-budget."

Current estimates indicate more than 200 reactors will be built by 2020 and that even more will be required for jurisdictions around the world to meet their greenhouse gas emission reduction targets.

"The government's support will help make AECL more attractive to appropriate investors who are willing to work with us to take CANDU technology to world markets," says Dr. Alexander. "With more than 30 years supporting the construction of CANDU reactors around the world, we are ready to meet increased demand."

About OCI

The Organization of CANDU Industries (OCI) represents more than 160 Canadian companies supplying goods & services for CANDU reactors in domestic & export markets. OCI companies provide engineering services & manufactured components for the CANDU industry and although it functions separately from design authorities & utilities, OCI members participate in design, manufacture, construction & commissioning of CANDU plants here at home and abroad.

For further information: Josh Turner, [email protected], [phone] ext. 232