On May 14, a public information session was held at the Centre culturel Larochelle in Saint-Grégoire to provide updates and engage with the community regarding the decommissioning of the Gentilly-1 and Gentilly-2 nuclear facilities.
The event, running from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., welcomed nearly 50 community members throughout the afternoon and evening. Attendees had the opportunity to connect directly with representatives from CNL, Hydro-Québec, the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO), and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), fostering an open and informative dialogue.
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. Many appreciated the accessibility and welcoming atmosphere of the venue, which was chosen to ensure ease of attendance for local residents of the Champlain area. The event’s broad organizational participation helped spark strong media interest, leading to extensive coverage, including:
- A live radio interview on Toujours le matin (95.5 ICI Radio-Canada Première – Trois-Rivières):
- A segment on Le téléjournal Mauricie (Radio-Canada), which aired interviews and event footage that evening:
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- Épisode du mercredi 14 mai 2025 – at minute 7:05
- Print and online coverage from several outlets, including:
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- Le Nouvelliste – Centrales nucléaires: accélération du démantèlement
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- Radio-Canada Info – Centrales nucléaires de Gentilly : le processus de déclassement se concrétise
- A follow-up radio interview with VIA 90.5 FM
Members of the public engaging with Reactor Segmentation’s Steve Plante and G-1’s Alexandre Masse
The session also showcased innovative demonstrations that brought the complex work of decommissioning to life. Engaging exhibits, including virtual reality experiences and interactive robotics, captured the attention of attendees and highlighted the commitment to transparency and innovation throughout the project.
D&ER Innovations’ Jeff Fortin and Codie Gosnell demonstrating how the Apple Vision Pros and Virtual Reality are used
CNL was able to address numerous questions from the public regarding both the Gentilly-1 Decommissioning Project and the Gentilly-1 Fuel Consolidation Project, providing clear explanations about the activities planned and underway.
Reactor Decommissioning’s Julie Therrien demonstrating the robot dog for the public
In addition to informative presentations and expert discussions, the event included outreach to Indigenous Nations and communities, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and respectful engagement. Although representatives from the Wendat Nation, the W8banaki Nation, and the Abenaki communities of Odanak and Wôlinak were unable to attend, they have expressed their appreciation and interest in receiving presentation materials.
Overall, the information session was a significant success—strengthening community relationships, increasing public understanding, and showcasing collaboration among key organizations involved in the Gentilly facility decommissioning. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who participated and contributed to this important initiative.
Back Row L-R: Patrice Desbiens (Hydro-Québec) Marcus Mattinson (NWMO), Marie-Élaine Laroche (Hydro-Quebec), Stéphanie Seang (Hydro-Québec) , Kevin Ross (CNSC), Daniel Alu, CNSC
Middle Row L-R: Ryan Clarke, Alexandra Riopelle, Ulf Stahmner (NWMO), Julie Therrien, Annie Désilets (Hydro-Quebec), Hugo Delaney (PAA)
Front Row L-R: Jeff Fortin, Christian Abillama, Steve Plante, Amaryllis Harrison (PAA), Codie Gosnell
