Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus champions growth of life-saving isotope ecosystem

Regional wardens pass resolution supporting southwestern Ontario’s leadership in isotope innovation and economic development

The Southwestern Ontario Isotope Coalition (SOIC) welcomes Friday’s resolution from the Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (WOWC), which formally signals the Caucus’ support for the growth and expansion of the region’s medical isotope ecosystem.

With global demand for life-saving medical isotopes continuing to rise, southwestern Ontario is well positioned to strengthen its leadership in this critical sector. This unanimous resolution underscores the importance of regional collaboration in building a future-ready ecosystem to support the Province of Ontario’s goal of doubling isotope production by 2030.

“As the unified voice for 15 upper-tier and single-tier municipalities across Western Ontario, the WOWC is committed to advancing regional opportunities that drive economic growth, strengthen communities and support health innovation,” said Amy Martin, Chair, Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus & Mayor of Norfolk County. “By supporting the expansion of the isotope ecosystem, we are helping to secure new jobs, investment and partnerships across our region, while also ensuring that Southwestern Ontario continues to lead globally in the delivery of life-saving medical solutions.”

She added: “This resolution reflects the Caucus’ focus on building resilient, future-ready communities that contribute directly to Ontario’s prosperity and the well-being of people worldwide.”

Click to read the Review of regional opportunitites

Ontario’s nuclear sector plays a vital role in supplying isotopes that diagnose and treat cancer and other serious diseases. Southwestern Ontario currently provides key isotopes such as Cobalt-60 and Lutetium-177—produced at Bruce Power—as well as Iodine-125, produced at McMaster University.

In June 2025, SOIC released a Review of regional opportunities, which includes 12 recommendations to guide isotope expansion, raise local awareness of southwestern Ontario’s contributions, attract new public and private investment, and strengthen the region’s role in the global isotope supply chain.

Said Jessica Linthorne, President and CEO of the Nuclear Innovation Institute,

“The Southwestern Ontario Isotope Coalition looks forward to working closely with the Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus and partners to expand the region’s role in the global supply of medical isotopes—ensuring Ontario remains a leader in this vital sector of health innovation.”