Notice of referral to review panel

Ottawa — March 23, 2026 — On March 18, 2026, the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC), on behalf of the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Nature (the Minister), has referred the integrated assessment of the Deep Geological Repository (DGR) for Canada's Used Nuclear Fuel Project (the project) to an independent review panel. 

As per section 43 of the Impact Assessment Act, the Minister must refer the integrated assessment of a project to a review panel if the project includes physical activities that are regulated under the Nuclear Safety and Control Act. 

IAAC has chosen to issue the notice of referral to a review panel prior to the notice of commencement to provide greater certainty to participants and the proponent regarding next steps in the integrated assessment and to facilitate collaboration with the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission.

For further information on this integrated assessment, please contact:

Deep Geological Repository (DGR) for Canada's Used Nuclear Fuel Project
Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
160 Elgin Street, 22nd Floor
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0H3
Telephone: 343-598-5270
Email: nuclearwaste-dechetsnucleaires@iaac-aeic.gc.ca 

Media Relations
Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
160 Elgin Street, 22nd Floor
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0H3
Email: media@iaac-aeic.gc.ca