Notice of early decision with reasons

Ottawa — March 23, 2026 — On March 18, 2026, the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) has decided that a further assessment is required for the Deep Geological Repository (DGR) for Canada's Used Nuclear Fuel Project (the project) proposed by the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) (the proponent), located 21 kilometres southeast of the Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation and 43 kilometres northwest of the Township of Ignace, Ontario.

In accordance with subsection 16(2) of the Impact Assessment Act (IAA), IAAC considered each of the following factors: 

• the Initial Project Description, and the Response to the Summary of Issues, as submitted by the proponent pursuant to sections 10 and 15 of the IAA;
• the adverse effects within federal jurisdiction, or the direct or incidental adverse effects, that may be caused by the carrying out of the project;
• adverse impacts that the project may have on the rights of Indigenous Peoples of Canada recognized and affirmed by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982; 
• comments received by IAAC from the public, Indigenous Peoples, federal authorities, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, and other jurisdictions in relation to the project, as reflected in the Summary of Issues; 
• any relevant assessment referred to in section 92, 93 or 95 of the IAA; and
• whether a means other than an impact assessment exists that would permit a jurisdiction to address the adverse effects within federal jurisdiction, and the direct or incidental adverse effects, that may be caused by the carrying out of the project. 

IAAC is satisfied that the carrying out of the designated project may cause adverse effects within federal jurisdiction or direct or incidental adverse effects, including effects on the environment or to health, social or economic conditions. 

As a result, IAAC has decided that a further assessment is required for the project.

For further information on this impact assessment, please contact:

Deep Geological Repository 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