Getting Involved! - The Public Hearing Process

A GUIDE TO PUBLIC HEARINGS

Nuclear safety is everyone's business. Every day, millions of Canadians use nuclear energy, though we may not always be aware of how it contributes to our lives.

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (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. Created in 1946 as the Atomic Energy Control Board, the agency changed its name in 2000 with the enactment of the Nuclear Safety and Control Act (NSCA).

As part of its regulatory role, the CNSC considers licence applications for nuclear facilities. Through a public hearing process, citizens are encouraged to participate in licensing hearings for major nuclear facilities (e.g., power reactors, uranium mines and mills, waste facilities, research and production facilities) to ensure our regulatory system reflects the diverse needs and concerns of Canadians.

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission is committed to being open and transparent. The public hearing process is part of that commitment. As Canadian citizens, you have an opportunity to participate in decisions that affect you - you can be heard.