Dear Premier McGuinty,

I'm writing to you today because I am concerned about the need for a moratorium on uranium mining in Eastern Ontario, to be followed by an inquiry into uranium mining. I made the same appeal to Premier Blakney of Saskatchewan in the 1970's, and he
appointed Justice Bayda to lead such an inquiry. It may be reassuring for you to note that Saskatchewan has subsequently developed huge deposits of uranium, and it has become a major boost to their economy.

It could be a major public relations disaster if you allow Donna
Dillman, a 53-year old grandmother, to die of a hunger strike. She has announced that she will move to a water-only
regime today if her appeal for a moratorium is not met.

Mr. Premier, Ms. Dillman's request for a full public inquiry into
uranium mining is very reasonable. In September 1978, an Ontario
Royal Commission on Electric Power Planning, recognizing the health and environmental problems associated with uranium
mining and mill tailings, recommended the establishment of an
independent review committee of "internationally recognized ecologists" to study the challenges of uranium mining. Such a committee has never been established. Donna is simply asking your government to follow recommendations that have been before it for almost 30 years before embarking on a course of action that could poison many Ontario communities.

There is no reason to rush ahead with mining. Canada already has
uranium reserves that could last for 40 years. We export 85% of our uranium. On what possible grounds would you want to resist meeting her requests?

Sincerely,

David Langille
Co-Chair, Ontario Coalition for Social Justice