The Commission has reviewed the additional submissions and is satisfied with the information it has received. The Commission has determined that it does not require any additional information and that it is ready to receive final submissions. The guidance for final submissions remains the same as communicated in the March 23, 2023, Revised Notice of Public Hearing and Procedural Guidance for Final Submissions, however, the deadlines have been extended.
Intervenors who made oral submissions during Part 2 of the public hearing have the option to make written final submissions to the Commission, which must be filed with the Commission Registry by June 6, 2023. CNL, as the proponent, must file its written final submission with the Registry by June 21, 2023. Final submissions may not introduce any new information.
In the spirit of reconciliation and in recognition of the Indigenous oral tradition for sharing knowledge, Indigenous Nations and communities that made oral interventions during Part 2 of the public hearing can make their final submissions orally should they so choose. The June 27, 2023 oral hearing for final submissions by Indigenous nations and communities remains unchanged.
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 on 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 May 1, 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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