New CNSC Site Office at AECL’s Chalk River Laboratories

06-10

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2006

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced today the opening of the new site office at Atomic Energy of Canada Limited’s (AECL) Chalk River Laboratories (CRL).

The CNSC staff at the CRL site office is responsible for carrying out on-site compliance activities, including inspections and audits.

“Due to the increasing complexity of the nuclear facility operations and activities at AECL’s Chalk River Laboratories, the CNSC has recognized the merit of having an on-site regulatory presence”, said Linda J. Keen, President and CEO of the CNSC. “This initiative will allow for timely and effective follow-up on regulatory actions and activities at the CRL site.”

The CNSC’s new site office will include four staff reporting to the Director of the Chalk River Laboratories Compliance and Licensing Division. To date, three permanent employees have been hired and staffing is expected to be completed by mid-summer.

The CNSC’s mission is to regulate 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:
Aurèle Gervais
Media and Community Relations
Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission
(613) 996-6860