CNSC Announces Decision on Amendment of Uranium Mine and Mill Operating Licence for COGEMA Resources Inc.’s McClean Lake Operation

05-23

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 9, 2005

Following a 2-day public hearing held on August 17 and October 19, 2005, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced today its decision to amend the Uranium Mine and Mill Operating Licence for COGEMA Resources Inc.’s (COGEMA) McClean Lake Operation in northern Saskatchewan. The amended licence will allow for the open-pit mining of the Sue E ore body and subsequent processing of the ore at the McCleanLake mill.

During the public hearing, the Commission considered written submissions and oral presentations from COGEMA, CNSC staff and intervenors. The Commission concluded that COGEMA is qualified to carry on the activity that the licence will authorize and that it will make adequate provision for the protection of the environment, the health and safety of persons, and the maintenance of national security and measures required to implement international obligations to which Canada has agreed.

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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Contact:
Pascale Bourassa
Commission Secretariat
(613) 947-0247
1-800-668-5284