Whistler’s Answers: May 23, 1986Whistler’s Answers: May 23, 1986
In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1986. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: The No. 4 reactor of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in today’s Ukraine exploded on April 26, 1986. The disaster is still considered the worst nuclear disaster in history.
Question: Has the Chernobyl nuclear accident affected you in any way?
Deiter Kloepper – Banker – Vancouver
I think it serves a positive function in that it’s made us look at the greater risks of nuclear weapons and what would happen if they were ever used. In global terms, no one would win a nuclear war. Chernobyl has drawn the public’s attention to the risks of nuclear weapons. People have become more aware of the greater hazards and are hopefully more determined to stop the spread of nuclear weapons.
Alain DePassille – Construction Worker – White Gold
It changed my view on the risks of proceeding with nuclear power. You can’t see radioactive contamination and you can’t smell it. You have to live with the knowledge of the risks. I used to look at crystal clear water and think of how nice and pure it is, but now when I look at it I don’t think of it as pure anymore.
Allan May – Carpenter – Whistler
It certainly makes you wonder whether they should continue to use nuclear power, particularly in BC where there is so much hydro-electric power. But boy, it’s scary when you think of the magnitude of the problem so far. The way they’re picking up traces of radioactivity in rainwater all over the world. Although only minuscule amounts have been measured, a full meltdown could be much more serious.