Protesters rally in Pickering to decommission nuclear power plant

While premier-designate Doug Ford’s decision to keep the Pickering Nuclear Station open until 2024 was well-received by many, there are a number of people who are opposing the decision.

A group of protesters rallied outside the Pickering Recreation Complex on Tuesday afternoon.

It’s the site of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission licensing renewal hearing this week.

The group wants the Pickering Power Plant to be decommissioned over the impact it has on both the environment and people living in the area.

“I’m more concerned about lowering the electricity rates for the entire province and providing safety and security for the residents of the area, of the GTA. So when you balance it all out, I think we need to consider all Ontarians, consider the safety and security of the local residents and we can create jobs by immediately decommissioning the station. So that’s what we’re calling for, an immediate decommissioning,” said Angela Bischoff, Ontario Clean Air Alliance outreach director.

The Pickering power plant generates 14 per cent of the province’s energy and employs 4,500 people.