CNSC Announces Decision on the Environmental Assessment Screening Report for Ontario Power Generation’s Proposed Expansion of the Pickering Waste Management Facility (Phase II)

04-06

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 28, 2004

Following a public hearing held on April 28, 2004, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced its conclusion that Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) proposed expansion of the Pickering Waste Management Facility (Phase II), 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 an application to amend the existing CNSC licence for the Pickering Waste Management Facility. A separate public hearing on a licence amendment application from OPG will be held at a later date.

During the public hearing on the Screening Report, the Commission considered written submissions and oral presentations from OPG, CNSC staff and an intervenor.

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