CNL respects today’s procedural directive issued by the Commission. CNL has been engaging with Kebaowek First Nation and the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg since the outset of the NSDF project. We welcome the opportunity to further engage with Kebaowek First Nation and the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg. CNL remains committed to engaging with all interested Indigenous Nations and organizations, stakeholders, and the public. CNL also remains committed to advancing environmental protection and remediation of the Chalk River site and believes the NSDF is a responsible science-based solution.
Background:
The Commission issued a Procedural Direction on Canadian Nuclear Laboratories’ (CNL) application to amend the Nuclear Research and Test Establishment operating Licence for the Chalk River Laboratories site, today, July 5, 2022.
Following a 2-part public hearing of the licence amendment application from CNL to construct a near-surface disposal facility, the Commission has decided to leave the record open to allow more time for engagement and consultation with Kebaowek First Nation and the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, and for the filing of additional information about these consultative efforts.
Kebaowek First Nation, the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, Atomic Energy of Canada Limited, CNL, and CNSC staff will have until January 31, 2023 to file additional information.
The Commission’s procedural direction constitutes no ruling with respect to the environmental assessment or the licence amendment application. The Commission will await further information before making decisions in respect of the duty to consult, the environmental assessment, and the licence amendment application. The procedural direction is posted on the CNSC website.
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