News Releases

CNSC Announces Decision on Screening Environmental Assessment of Zircatec’s Proposed SEU CANDU Fuel Production Project

08-06

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 18, 2008

Following a public hearing held on January 9, 2008 in Oshawa, Ontario, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced today its decision on the environmental assessment of Zircatec Precision Industries Inc.’s (Zircatec) project to produce slightly enriched uranium (SEU) CANDU fuel at its facility located in Port Hope, Ontario.When taking into account mitigation measures identified in the Environmental Assessment Screening Report, the Commission concluded that Zircatec’s project to produce slightly enriched uranium (SEU) CANDU fuel, at its facility located in Port Hope, Ontario, is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

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.

The Commission therefore can proceed, under the Nuclear Safety and Control Act, with its consideration of a licence application from Zircatec Precision Industries Inc. for the proposed project.

During the public hearing on the environmental assessment screening, the Commission considered the Environmental Assessment Screening Report and written submissions and oral presentations from CNSC staff and Zircatec. The Commission also considered oral and written submissions from eight intervenors.

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.

Contact:
Pascale Bourassa
Commission Secretariat
613-947-0247
1-800-668-5284 
interventions@cnsc-ccsn.gc.ca