Following a hearing on November 15, 2001 and January 17, 2002, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) today announced its decision to renew the Nuclear Fuel Facility Operating Licence for Cameco Corporation, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, for its uranium conversion facility located in Port Hope, Ontario. The licence is valid until February 28, 2007.
With that decision, the Commission requires CNSC staff to prepare a status report at the mid-point in the five-year licence period for presentation at a public proceeding of the Commission. Public comments on the status report will be sought at that time. CNSC staff is also required to inform the Commission in one year about the design and implementation of an environmental effects monitoring program for Cameco’s Port Hope facility
Cameco’s Port Hope facility is used primarily to convert uranium trioxide (UO3) powder, produced at Cameco’s uranium refining facility located in Blind River, Ontario, to uranium dioxide (UO2) and uranium hexafluoride (UF6). UO2 is used in the manufacture of CANDU reactor fuel while UF6 is exported for further processing into light water reactor fuel.
During the public hearing, the Commission considered written material and presentations from Cameco Corporation, CNSC staff, and intervenors. It concluded that Cameco Corporation is qualified to operate this 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 Canada’s international obligations.
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.
Contact:
Sunni Locatelli
Commission Secretariat
613-995-0360
1-800-668-5284
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