CNA Makes Safety Case for Uranium Mining in Quebec

MONTREAL (December 15, 2014) – The Canadian Nuclear Association (CNA) appeared before the Bureau d’audiences publiques sur l’environnement (BAPE) to present the health, economic and climate change benefits of uranium, and to highlight the exemplary safety performance of the uranium mining industry.

“Many Quebeckers are not aware or not prepared to recognize the benefits of uranium,” said Dr. John Barrett, CNA President and CEO. “The BAPE can help by recommending an approach through which Quebec communities and members of the public can consider – and explore further – options for a safe and successful uranium-mining industry in their region.”

The BAPE has been studying uranium mining issues in Quebec since last May, and is due to report next spring to Quebec’s Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment and the Fight Against Climate Change.

In his presentation today in Montreal, Dr. Barrett explained how uranium mining and the applications of uranium to medicine and electrical power generation are among the most regulated industrial sectors in Canada.

Dr. Barrett also underlined the opportunity that exists for communities to improve living conditions, training and employment, given that uranium will continue to be an element in demand worldwide for many years to come.

Canadian uranium powers nuclear generating stations, producing extremely low-carbon electricity. The nuclear industry also produces isotopes for cancer and heart diagnostics and treatment, enables precision manufacturing through advanced imaging, and ensures food safety through irradiation.

About the CNA

The CNA represents about 100 organizations whose 30,000 employees mine uranium, fabricate fuel, design and service reactors, generate electricity, advance nuclear medicine, and export Canadian nuclear expertise.

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Additional links:

CNA Submission to the BAPE
RHEM Technologies report (SAN6) – Available in French only
RHEM Technologies report (PR3) – Available in French only
Quotes from the CNA Submission and RHEM Technologies reports
Backgrounder: Uranium Mining in Canada
Backgrounder: Transportation of Nuclear Substances in Canada
Infographic: Uranium Mining Safety
Infographic: Cancer and Nuclear Medicine

For more information:

Erin Polka
Communications Officer
613-237-4262 #101