People power at nucleus of discussion

– Callan Date
CASEY residents will be invited to have their say on the pros and cons of nuclear power.
A 10-page report looking at both the positive and negative effects of a nuclear power station or nuclear waste storage facility in Casey was presented to councillors at Tuesday night’s meeting.
The document will be placed on Casey’s website for the public to view with feedback wanted from locals.
The report highlights Western Port, with its close proximity to a large amount of water, as being the only area within Casey capable of facilitating a nuclear power plant.
Casey’s report comes after a major research centre reported last year that Western Port was an ideal site for a nuclear power plant.
The area was identified because of its proximity to the coast which would provide access to the large volumes of cooling water required by a nuclear power station.
Other criteria include its proximity to major transmission lines and a major load centre, Melbourne, and good rail and port access to transport fuel rods.
Councillor Rob Wilson, who requested the report, told the council that there were many examples from around the world of nuclear power going wrong and having a detrimental effect on the environment.
“This is about giving our residents a chance to have their say on their thoughts about nuclear energy,” Cr Wilson said.
Many councillors commended Cr Wilson, along with Casey officer Asok Rao who researched the report, for raising the contentious issue.
The report also noted:
• Anecdotal evidence indicates that significant community opposition would be generated if the Casey coast was designated as a potential area of interest.
• Nuclear power plants in the US generate between 400 and 700 permanent jobs.
• The equivalent number of jobs is created in the local area to provide goods and services to the plant and workers.
• Construction would generate 1400 to 1800 jobs.