CANE - Coalition Against Nuclear Energy South Africa

Greenpeace Supports Historic Launch

If the nuclear industry thinks they’re on the edge of a nuclear renaissance, they’ll have to think again − at least in South Africa.

This past weekend in Bloemfontein saw the successful launch of the Coalition Against Nuclear Energy (CANE), with representatives from all corners of the country, including: Namaqualand communities affected by nuclear waste at Vaalputs; neighbours of Koeberg Nuclear Power Station; landowners around Pelindaba (site of the proposed pebble-bed fuel factory, nuclear enrichment plant, and nuclear waste smelter), and residents opposed to the proposed sites for a new nuclear power station at Bantamsklip and Thyspunt, as well as the transport of nuclear material.

Apart from an observer from Greenpeace International, strongly present and active were members of faith-based organisations, while over 100 letters of support have been received from other local and international organisations.

Former General Secretary of Koeberg Alert, Mike Kantey was unanimously elected Chairperson at the launch, who paid homage to other, seasoned anti-nuclear veterans who were also present.

“Given the current energy crisis” he said in a keynote address, “and our comprehensive rejection of nuclear energy as a solution to global warming, we commit ourselves to a genuinely sustainable people- and planet-friendly energy solution for all. We support the SACC, COSATU, SAFCEI, and SANGOCO’s call for an accountable and transparent process leading to a National Energy Summit.”

Issued for Immediate Release by the National Co-ordinating Committee, the Coalition Against Nuclear Energy (CANE)

Contact: Mike Kantey 072 628 5131; 021 671 7117

www.cane.org.za

Pic – CANE chairperson Mike Kantey; Reverend John Van Wyk, Attorney Andre Fortuin at the launch 12 April 2008.

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