Uranium Exploration Approval Raises Broad Issues In Québec

The recent decision by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission to grant a five year uranium exploration license to Strateco Resources for a project in the Otish Basin in northern Québec has led to significant discussion about the future of uranium exploration and mining in Québec.

The application itself was not particularly noteworthy - the CNSC granted a five year license to Strateco to carry out advanced uranium exploration activities.  Uranium mining, if desired, would be the subject of a later application and approval if desired by the proponent. 

During the course of hearings into the application, nine Cree nations in northern Québec raised significant concerns about uranium exploration and mining.  The CNSC dealt with the submissions of the Cree nations in its reasons for decisions.