CNSC Clarifies Stance On Tailings, Consultation
Friday, March 26, 2010 at 14:24
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission has released a policy position concerning waste management from uranium mines.
The regulatory body says the purpose of the paper is to provide guiding principles for mining and milling operations.
Among the regulations is one stating natural water-bodies frequented by fish shall be avoided to the “extent practical”.
As well, it says existing open pits and underground developments should be utilized as much as possible for the management of mine tailings.
The CNSC also wants companies to realize the future of radioactive waste must be examined, and that the predicted long-term impacts should be no greater than the ones now permitted.
The commission is anticipating it will receive several licence applications from proponents of newly proposed mines, and therefore, it wants to let them know what is expected of them.
The CNSC also says recent public interest led to the move, as well.
Meanwhile, the commission is reiterating its support for consultations with Aboriginal communities.
In a release, the agency says it realizes that Aboriginal people have concerns with regard to the nuclear sector and it has to keep telling them what is going on.
One new wrinkle in its policy is the possible establishment of a fund for people to meet with the nuclear safety watchdog.
Details are sketchy, but the CNSC says the federal government is taking steps to create a funding program so Aboriginal people can take part in CNSC hearing processes.
However, the idea still needs authorization for it to happen.