The Coalition for a Nuclear Free Alberta launched a campaign yesterday to show Albertans that there are energy alternatives to nuclear power.
Members of the CNFA gave out green ribbons on the steps of the legislature building and carried a banner displaying their slogan: A Truly Green Energy Future … Does Not Include Nuclear Power. Similar launches took place in 14 communities across Alberta.
Mandy Melnyk, a spokeswoman for CNFA, said the province hasn’t done enough to educate Albertans on the issue, or to look at alternative renewable energy solutions.
The provincial government has flirted with the idea of nuclear power since March 2008, when Bruce Power filed a site application to build a plant in the Peace River region.
The province launched a “broad public consultation” last April, which consisted of surveys and discussion groups. Alberta Energy spokesman Jerry Bellikka said the findings will be released next month in a report.
“Our goal is to put (the issue) into perspective and settle on a policy,” he said.
He said the government is neither for nor against nuclear power at this point, but will set its policy by the end of 2009.
“I think the last thing Alberta needs is a nuclear power plant,” said Kevin Taft, Liberal MLA for Edmonton-Riverview.
Taft said he will continue to work with the public and press the premier on nuclear power issues.
The CNFA will hold a mass rally at the legislature on Oct. 27.
