Organization of CANDU Industries supports government's move to expedite the
restructuring of AECL

Urges federal government to keep its eye on the growing opportunity for CANDU

PICKERING, ON, April 1 /CNW/ - The Organization of CANDU Industries supports the government's move to expedite the restructuring of AECL. This action removes impediments to restructuring and encourages worldwide investment to restore CANDU technology to its world-leading position at a critical time in the development of the nuclear power market.

"With a burgeoning world nuclear market, Canada has much to lose if it does not act quickly, and much to gain if it does," said OCI President Dr. Neil Alexander. "Inappropriate restrictions or delays will interfere with the restructuring and deny a much needed opportunity to the Canadian industry."

Under a bill tabled this week in Parliament, the federal government would gain the authority to sell part or all of AECL "on any terms" the cabinet "considers appropriate." Currently, an act of Parliament is required to approve the sale of the crown corporation.

"While OCI supports the federal government's action, we urge the government to maintain its stated policy objectives to ensure the long-term health of the industry in Canada by keeping its intellectual property and the 30,000 nuclear-related jobs here at home," said Dr. Alexander.

With the first opportunity for construction of an Advanced CANDU Reactor here in Ontario, OCI encourages the provincial and federal governments to work together to expedite the announcement of the construction of the ACRs at Darlington.

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