Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) has come under scrutiny after it was revealed that they discharged toxic sewage at the Chalk River site along the Ottawa River during peak fish spawning season earlier this year. Environment Canada issued CNL a compliance direction in late April after testing found that the sewage effluent was toxic to fish, violating Fisheries Act regulations.
The lack of transparency around the incident has raised concerns, with fears that the toxic wastewater may have ended up in the Ottawa River. Chief Lance Haymond of Kebaowek First Nation expressed shock and concern over the situation, especially since it occurred during a critical period in the fishing season.
CNL has since taken steps to address the issue, including increased toxicity testing, third-party evaluations, and facility improvements. They are providing regular progress reports to Environment Canada until the problem is resolved.
The incident has also raised questions about the biological treatment system used at the plant. Civil engineering professor Robert Delatolla explained that disturbances in the system can occur if toxic substances enter the treatment process, rendering the microorganisms non-viable.
Local advocates, such as Larissa Holman from Ottawa Riverkeeper, have called for more transparency and clarity regarding the severity of the incident. While CNL has taken extensive measures to address the issue, concerns remain about the potential impact on the environment and fish populations in the area.
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has not listed the incident in its reports, prompting further questions about oversight and regulation in the nuclear industry.