CNSC Announces Decision to Issue a Waste Facility Operating Licence for the Beaverlodge Mine and Mill Site

05-03

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 5, 2005

Following a public hearing on September 16, 2004 and February 24, 2005, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced today its decision to issue a Waste Facility Operating Licence to Cameco Corporation (Cameco) for its Beaverlodge mine and mill site located in Northern Saskatchewan. The licence is valid until March 31, 2007.

The licence authorizes Cameco to possess, manage and store nuclear substances associated with the past operation and decommissioning of the Beaverlodge facility.

During the public hearing, the Commission considered written submissions and oral presentations from Cameco, CNSC staff and intervenors. The Commission concluded that Cameco is qualified to carry on the activity that the licence will authorize and in carrying on that activity, 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:
Pascale Bourassa
Commission Secretariat
(613) 947-0247
1-800-668-5284