For immediate release March 23, 2005

Moore supports refurbishment of Lepreau Nuclear Power Plant


Ottawa - Rob Moore, MP for Fundy Royal and chair of the Atlantic Conservative Caucus, is in support of the refurbishment of the Point Lepreau Nuclear Power Plant.

"Over 30 percent of power produced in New Brunswick is generated from the Lepreau Plant," said Moore. "If the plant is not refurbished, we will loose 700 highly paid jobs. This would have a major negative impact on our economy. It could also have a negative impact on our environment if the replacement energy production is not as clean as Lepreau."

A spokesperson for Enterprise Saint John stated, at a local media conference, that Lepreau employees earn up to $70 million annually. Out of that $70 million, Enterprise Saint John estimates over $27 million flows back to the Provincial and Federal government in taxes.

Point Lepreau has been a reliable generator during the past 21 years of operation and renovating it would extend the life of the Nuclear Plant for another 25 years. "The reconstruction of this plant would have a very positive impact on the future growth of the communities in southwestern New Brunswick," added Moore.



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Gisele Taylor at (613) 996-2332, cell (613) 297-4818