Mediaplanet sat down with Tracy Primeau, Indigenous Nuclear Leader, to explore how Indigenous perspectives are shaping Canada’s nuclear future. From strengthening host community partnerships to building trust and integrating traditional knowledge, she shares how collaboration is driving innovation, safety, and sustainability in the energy sector.
As someone with decades of experience in Canada’s nuclear industry, what excites you most about the current trajectory of nuclear energy in the country?
This is my 3rd nuclear renaissance in 35 years and I truly believe this one is going to stick. The climate crisis has changed people’s minds about nuclear and as a result we are being welcomed in places we haven’t been before or at least not for awhile both across Canada and globally. I’m excited about the different opportunities for different types of SMRs-both in technology and size including those that focus on supplying the grid, supplying high temperature steam and microSMRs for smaller applications and communities. The equity opportunities for both Indigenous communities and businesses is also at a different level than ever before and the nuclear industry is demonstrating that it is truly committed to reconciliation.
As Canada continues to invest in nuclear as a key pillar of its energy strategy, how do you see Indigenous communities shaping the future of nuclear development and deployment across the country?
No longer are Indigenous communities an afterthought in the development of projects. The industry is developing relations in some cases before they are at the project stage including co-planning and making equity agreements from the beginning. Furthermore, the industry appreciates the benefits of these relationships and agreements as information is shared from knowledge keepers and the advocacy of community leaders assists in licensing and social acceptance. No longer do I find myself as one of the few Indigenous people in nuclear as more and more join us across all areas not just Indigenous Relations.
How has the concept of “nuclear host community” evolved in Canada, and what should it mean in today’s context of collaboration and innovation?
When I think of host communities I think firstly of municipalities where nuclear has a presence. This now includes communities who are simply considering nuclear and goes beyond the town to the counties benefitting from the industry in their geographical areas. Those municipalities are also learning more earlier in the process of considering new projects and have more opportunities to be involved in possible partnerships and opportunities. This has been well illustrated by the NWMO’s relationship with Ignace and Energy Alberta’s Peace River Project. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that Canada is world leading in this area as recognized recently in Vienna.
In your experience, what are the most important elements for building trust between the nuclear industry and the communities it serves?
Transparency and lots of communication. There is a line between too little and too much communication but in my experience you can’t really over communicate with communities. Building a relationship before you ever start discussing projects although not always possible is also key. As we say in the Indigenous space, it takes 500 cups of tea to build that relationship so it’s best to start early. Also patience is key, as my sister often says we need to build relationships at the speed of trust which applies to all communities not just Indigenous ones. Finally have a diverse representative talk to your diverse audience not focusing on technical arguments but on personal connections and storytelling.
How can Indigenous knowledge enhance environmental stewardship and safety in nuclear projects?
Using traditional knowledge to evaluate environmental assessments should be a requirement for all nuclear projects. Deep understanding of local ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainable resource management are three of the things Indigenous knowledge offers to any development. Also this early engagement means there is less likely to be something overlooked in all areas of possible impacts which can change throughout the seasons. Once example I will offer from the uranium mining exploration industry is the need to coordinate any exploration on traditional lands around mating seasons and hunting/fishing seasons to ensure the animals and trappers/tallymen are not adversely impacted.
Anything else you would like to add?
The nuclear industry has opportunities for everyone, in all areas of work beyond engineering, construction and operations. We need to get the word out about the opportunities and attract the best and brightest to ensure we can get the many possible projects to the finish line. Nuclear offers a real answer to the climate crisis and opportunities for Indigenous generational change.
