RURAL and remote students across SA had the chance yesterday to provide Premier Jay Weatherill with their perspective on our nuclear fuel cycle role.
Held at Adelaide Oval, a group of 160 students - in years six to 12 - and 60 teachers from Ceduna, Mt Gambier, Coober Pedy, Roxby Downs and APY Lands discussed the Nuclear Fuel Cycle Royal Commission and examined the recommendations from the Citizens’ Jury, before providing feedback directly to Mr Weatherill.
Former Royal Commissioner Kevin Scarce AM presented to the group along with chief executive of the Nuclear Consultation and Response Agency, Madeline Richardson.
The group discussed five key areas:
- The Nuclear Fuel Cycle – the findings and recommendations from the Royal Commission’s Report
- Safety – transport and radiation
- Storing Radioactive Waste – what is a Geological Disposal Facility
- Economic Opportunity – potential benefits and costs for South Australia
- Community Considerations and Consultation – understanding social and community consent
The students will heard from a range of experts, with the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the information with their peers.
They have since returned to their region to share the information, engage with their respective schools and provide additional feedback on the issue of a nuclear waste storage and disposal facility in SA.
Mr Weatherill said it was the future generations that will inherit our decision.
“This is why their views are so important,” he said.
“The students gathered here are the future leaders of this state and I want to make sure that they get the opportunity to question the experts and that their voices are heard.”
Mr Weatherill said it was a critical discussion about the future of our state and he was very pleased that such a large number of students from all over the state have chosen to get involved.
The forum coincides with this week’s launch of the “Get to Know Nuclear” on-line conversation kit – a tool designed to encourage people to come together to discuss nuclear within their homes, schools, workplaces and social groups. It features key facts, findings and questions all in the one place to encourage community discussion and feedback.
- DETAILS: www.nuclear.sa.gov.au.