The Ontario PC government is taking bold action to strengthen cancer care, create good-paying jobs, and cement our province’s leadership in nuclear innovation with the launch of the Nuclear Isotope Innovation Council of Ontario (NIICO).
This expert advisory panel will guide Ontario’s plan to double the production of medical isotopes by 2030, leveraging our world-class nuclear fleet to save lives, drive economic growth, and keep Ontario competitive in the global marketplace.
Medical isotopes are one of the most powerful tools doctors have to diagnose and treat cancer. Ontario already produces about half of the world’s supply, helping treat cancers and sterilize medical equipment here at home and in hospitals around the world. With over 247,000 Canadians expected to be diagnosed with cancer this year, the demand for these life-saving materials has never been greater.
Through NIICO, Ontario will work with hospitals, health care providers, the Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council, and industry leaders to expand production, strengthen supply chains, and ensure patients have access to cutting-edge treatments when they need them most.
From Bruce to Pickering to Darlington, and with the first small modular reactor in North America being built right here in Ontario, our province is uniquely positioned to lead the fast-growing isotope market, support thousands of jobs, and improve millions of lives worldwide.