CNSC Announces Decision on Environmental Assessment Screening Report for Cameco Corporation’s Proposed Modification of the Cigar Lake Uranium Mine Site Facilities Located in Saskatchewan

04-09

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 30, 2004

Following a public hearing held on June 10, 2004, in La Ronge, Saskatchewan, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced its conclusion that Cameco Corporation’s (Cameco) proposed construction and/or modification of the CigarLake uranium mine site facilities, taking into account identified mitigation measures, 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 will proceed, under the Nuclear Safety and Control Act, with its consideration of a licence application from Cameco for the construction of the Cigar Lake Project.

The first hearing for surface construction activities at the CigarLake facility will be held on July 7, 2004. The second hearing, to consider Cameco’s application for a full construction licence will be held over two days, July 7 and November 17, 2004.Please refer to CNSC Notice Ref. 2004-H-9 for further information on public participation at these proceedings. The notice is available on the CNSC website or by contacting the CNSC.

During the public hearing on the Screening Report, the Commission considered written submissions and oral presentations from Cameco, CNSC staff and several intervenors.

A Record of Proceedings, including the Reasons for Decision, and transcript 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:

Sunni Locatelli
Commission Secretariat
(613) 995-0360
1-800-668-5284