Environment Office

📢 📝 Statement from SON Joint Chiefs and Councils on Canada's Nuclear Energy Strategy

On June 22, 2026, the Government of Canada released its Nuclear Energy Strategy confirming Canada’s commitment to expanding and accelerating nuclear energy development, with Ontario playing a key role.The Strategy outlines a plan to build up to ten new large-scale nuclear reactors across Canada, which could include the proposed Bruce C project.

We, the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, were not involved in the development of the Strategy, despite the significant impacts that nuclear development will have on our Lands, Waters, and People. Prior to the release of the Strategy, the SON Joint Chiefs and Councils wrote to the Prime Minister to raise concerns about the lack of early engagement with SON. SON warned that, by making nuclear energy a key part of Canada's energy and industrial strategy, Canada risks repeating a pattern of putting industry priorities ahead of SON rights and stewardship responsibilities.

Commitments to Indigenous rights without clear actions and accountability are not meaningful commitments. Chippewas of Nawash Ogimaa Kwe Veronica Smith said, “History cannot repeat itself. Canada and Ontario cannot continue to treat SON Territory as an energy sacrifice zone - an area where the Land, Water and People bear the risks while the benefits flow elsewhere.”

The SON Joint Chiefs and Councils continue to make it clear that SON's consent is required for any new nuclear development in or affecting our Territory. Chippewas of Saugeen Acting Chief Randall Kahgee said, “The SON Members are central to the decisions on major nuclear development projects.” SON will not accept a nuclear future built on the same marginalization and exploitation that has defined the past.

To learn more about Canada's Nuclear Energy Strategy visit: https://natural-resources.canada.ca/energy-sources/nuclear-energy-uranium/nuclear-energy-strategy-canada