CANCELLED - Annual Dinner 2020

EVENT CANCELLED

The joint annual dinner organised in partnership between the Nuclear Institute and Nuclear Industry Association each December is usually one of the key events of the year in our sector when we can all get together, enjoy each other’s company, and be reacquainted with those we may only see from year to year.

The event is booked with the JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel more than a year in advance, and we had hoped and planned to run it this year as well. Due to the pandemic we have of course kept this under review since the March lock down. With the measures put in place to seek to slow the spread of the coronavirus – and after discussions with the venue, and in consultation with our respective Boards - we have reluctantly concluded that it will not be possible to hold the dinner this year.

While there is such significant uncertainty over the public health restrictions, we did not want to be in a position that left both of our organisations liable for significant costs if we planned to go ahead and then have to cancel at short notice. The changes in guidance for social groups coming into effect this week simply add to that uncertainty. Further, the economic impact on a number of companies and individuals of the last few months has also been a factor in our considerations.

We have therefore agreed with the venue to postpone this year’s event, and we have rearranged the booking for Thursday 2 December 2021 – when we hope to be able to run the best Annual Dinner yet and see as many members of the NI and NIA there as possible.

Finally, in normal years this is a significant fundraiser for both the NIA and the NI and helps us run the organisations which support our sector and those who work in it. There will be a financial impact on both organisations as a result of this decision, and we hope that if you would take part in the Annual Dinner that you will be able to support other activities and events we will hold (some of which are by necessity virtual) in the year ahead. We can only do what we do to promote and support the nuclear community if the nuclear community supports us to do it.

We realise this will be disappointing news for many, including ourselves, but hope that you can appreciate why we have come to the conclusion we have. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

With best wishes
Sarah Beacock, Chief Executive, Nuclear Institute

Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive Nuclear Industry Association