Moving Toward Integrated Safeguards: The Canadian Experience

Canada signed the Additional Protocol in September 1998 and brought it into force in September 2000. With the signing and ratification of the Additional Protocol, Canada embarked on a new safeguards path—a path that ultimately will lead to integrated safeguards once the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is able to provide credible assurance on the non-diversion of declared nuclear material and on the absence of undeclared nuclear material and activities. The path we are on included preparations prior to signing the Additional Protocol, preparations for and the conclusion of the initial declaration, implementation of the Additional Protocol, updating declarations, and providing clarifications. These are all part of the steps necessary for the IAEA to reach a conclusion that all nuclear material has been placed under safeguards and remains in peaceful nuclear activities or is otherwise accounted for. Canada has also been preparing for the implementation of integrated safeguards in Canada by participating in the conceptualization of IS, providing technical expertise to aid in determining efficient and effective implementation and performing trials of safeguards concepts. This paper will briefly outline the Canadian experience to date, touch upon the lessons learned and provide perspectives on the future of safeguards in Canada. The ultimate goal of these new developments is to ensure that IAEA safeguards remain credible, effective, and efficient, resulting in a system that is focused and adaptable.