Today, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced the Commission's decision to renew the waste facility operating licence held by Cameco Corporation (Cameco) for the decommissioned Beaverlodge mine and mill site for 2 years. The site is located near Uranium City in northern Saskatchewan, within historic Treaty 8 territory, the Homeland of the Métis, and within the traditional territories of the Dene, Cree, and Métis peoples. This decision follows a public hearing based on written materials. The renewed licence authorizes Cameco to continue to manage ongoing reclamation, maintenance and monitoring activities at the Beaverlodge properties.
In making its decision, the Commission considered written submissions from Cameco, CNSC staff and 7 intervenors. The CNSC also made participant funding available through its Participant Funding Program and invited interventions from Indigenous Nations and communities, members of the public and stakeholders. A funding review committee, independent of the CNSC, reviewed the funding applications received and made recommendations on the allocation of funds. Based on the committee's recommendations, the CNSC awarded a total of up to $38,885 to the Ya'thi Néné Land and Resource Office.
After reviewing all submissions, the Commission concluded that Cameco remains qualified to carry on the activities that the renewed licence will authorize. It also concluded that Cameco will continue to make adequate provision for the protection of the environment and the health and safety of persons.
