Following a hearing held on January 24, 2007 in Ottawa, Ontario, the
Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced today its conclusion
that the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management Office’s (LLRMWO) proposed
project to construct and operate a long-term low-level radioactive waste
management facility, is not likely to cause significant adverse
environmental effects, taking into account mitigation measures identified in
the Environmental Assessment Screening Report.
Natural Resources Canada is the lead Responsible Authority for the
purposes of this environmental assessment. The CNSC and Fisheries and Oceans
Canada are also Responsible Authorities. More information is available on
the Natural Resources Canada Web site.
The Commission’s decision was based on its consideration of a screening
environmental assessment of the project that was prepared in accordance with
the requirements of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA).
Further, with respect to the CEAA, the Commission decided not to refer the
project to the federal Minister of the Environment for referral to a review
panel or mediator.
During the public hearing on the environmental assessment screening, the
Commission considered the Environmental Assessment Screening Report and
written submissions and oral presentations from the LLRWMO and CNSC staff.
The Commission therefore can proceed, under the Nuclear Safety and
Control Act, with its consideration of a licence application from the LLRWMO
for the proposed project.
A Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision and transcripts
of the hearing are available on the CNSC Web site at www.nuclearsafety.gc.ca,
or by contacting the CNSC.
The CNSC regulates the use of nuclear energy and materials to protect
health, safety, security and the environment and to respect Canada's
international commitments on the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
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