The owner of a medical manufacturing company in Ottawa admits to lacking funds to meet the requirements set by Canada’s nuclear regulator. Best Theratronics, the manufacturer involved, faced repercussions from the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) in November 2024 due to unresolved issues related to safety and financial obligations. One of the orders demanded a $1.8-million financial guarantee for potential clean-up expenses in case of plant decommissioning.
Despite nearly a year passing, the company’s owner, Krishnan Suthanthiran, expressed financial constraints, claiming an inability to secure the necessary funds. Suthanthiran criticized the CNSC for what he deemed as overly stringent financial demands, suggesting a potential relocation of operations to India or the United States. The CNSC acknowledged Best Theratronics’ non-compliance but did not disclose the actions it might take to ensure adherence.
Green Party Leader Elizabeth May criticized the CNSC for its handling of the situation, accusing the commission of being excessively lenient towards the company. Suthanthiran, who acquired Best Theratronics in 2008 after it was previously owned by MDS Nordion, hinted at ceasing nuclear-related manufacturing in Canada, citing challenges in finding skilled workers post-strike. The company’s workforce had significantly decreased from over 200 employees to about 60, with difficulties in recruiting qualified personnel, particularly machinists.
