CNSC Announces Decision to Authorize the Construction of Pickering Waste Management Facility Phase II

04-20

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 23, 2004

Following a public hearing on September 17 and November 17, 2004, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced today its decision to amend Ontario Power Generation Inc.’s (OPG) Waste Management Operating Licence to permit the construction of the Pickering Waste Management Facility Phase II, in Pickering, Ontario. The facility is for the dry storage of used reactor fuel from the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station.Permission to operate the facility will be the subject of a future application from OPG.The amended licence is valid until March 31, 2008.

During the public hearing, the Commission considered written submissions and oral presentations from Ontario Power Generation Inc. (OPG), CNSC staff and an intervenor. The Commission concluded that OPG is qualified to construct the facility and 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 the 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:
Marc Leblanc
Commission Secretary
(613) 995-6506
1-800-668-5284