Community leaders, Indigenous representatives, business voices, government partners, and youth came together this week at the Brokenhead River Community Hall to discuss the future of the Whiteshell Laboratories site and explore opportunities for the region.
Hosted by Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) and Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), the event brought together more than 150 participants from across eastern Manitoba. The goal was to share updates on the site’s progress and begin conversations about how collaboration can shape the region’s economic and social future as operations wind down.
The Whiteshell Laboratories site has long played a role in Manitoba’s scientific and industrial landscape. Now, as decommissioning advances, attention is turning to how the region can plan for new opportunities ahead.
CNL and AECL leaders outlined progress under the government-owned, contractor-operated model and reaffirmed their commitment to transparency, collaboration, and environmental responsibility. Manitoba Chambers of Commerce President and CEO Chuck Davidson shared insights on Manitoba’s broader economic outlook, emphasizing that future growth must be built through partnerships among Indigenous nations, municipalities, local business, and governments.
Chief Fontaine highlighted the importance of inclusion in economic planning, stating:
“To have economic growth, there has to be inclusion of Indigenous peoples in planning, policies, and laws. We were excluded for so many years from the economy.”
He also emphasized the positive momentum happening within communities:
“Women are really starting to step up in our communities and economies. They’re the fastest-growing business startups in the country.”
Youth participants brought their own energy and perspective, offering a glimpse into both the challenges and potential that exist in smaller communities. One student expressed gratitude for being heard, saying,
“Thank you for asking for input and actually taking the time to listen to us. When a major corporation asks for the input of high school students, that’s an honour.”
At the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and Manitoba Green Advantage, we view this as the beginning of a new chapter for eastern Manitoba—one defined by partnership, reconciliation, and shared vision. The decommissioning of the Whiteshell Laboratories site opens the door to fresh possibilities that balance economic renewal with environmental care.
The work ahead will take all of us, and it starts now.
