External Relations Committee

SPEA is very optimistic about the future of nuclear power, particularly the investment in our Canadian made CANDU technology both in Canda and abroad. This will enhance of our members’ careers, our industry, contribute to the Canadian economy, and help address climate change.

Given it’s been over 30 years since a CANDU reactor has been built or sold, the new CANDU reactor units announced for Cernavoda is excellent news. The refurbishment of Cernavoda Units 1 & 2 is also great news. Investment in the building and refurbishing of reactors are a multi-billion-dollar projects which are supported by many parties including Export Development Canada. Closer to home, our members are working hard on the design for the new MONARK reactor. The funding for this design has been backed by loans secured from the federal government. The MONARK design is a contender for the future New Build at Bruce C.

A major challenge to our members and their union is Atkins Realis’ continued corporate campaign to dimmish and isolate SPEA and our bargaining power. Moving our work to non-union, lower paid engineers, employed by AR companies in India, UK and a Candu Energy office in Argentina, threatens our bargaining leverage and our members’ careers. This is being done despite the high return on our members’ work for the company and its shareholders.

Candu Energy is a highly profitable company. Our goal is to ensure that it remains profitable and that employees are treated and compensated fairly. A strong collective agreement is the key to protecting our members’ interest and attracting talent to support and enhance CANDU technology.

The focus of our External Relations activities is to build the foundation for a strong bargaining campaign for 2026. The elements include strategies to leverage the reinstatement of our union President and our right to communicate with our members. Additionally, we are researching ways to limit the employer’s use of cheaper labour to perform our jobs.

SPEA continues to use outside consultants who specialize in understanding AR’s business relationships and to build leverage with their stakeholders. These consultants have assisted us with media, political lobbying, and research regarding funding and industry initiatives. We have been continuing to rely on these expert services because to date, UNIFOR has been unable to provide us with adequate campaign support.

Canadian Nuclear Workers Council

SPEA is a member of the Canadian Nuclear Workers Council (CNWC). It is comprised of all major unions working in the nuclear industry. The CNWC’s mandate is to promote nuclear power and to educate the public and politicians about its importance; especially as we try to move away from fossil fuels. The coalition also provides an avenue for unions to exchange information about the workplace and labour relations.

Industry Events

We have attended several industry events with key stakeholders such as the Minister of Energy, Candu Energy clients and industry stakeholders.

Moving forward

We plan to increase our public profile and build stronger relationships with politicians and industry stakeholders. We seek to gain more information regarding the role of government funding in our industry. We focus on meeting with stakeholders, key politicians to promote CANDU nuclear power.