QUEBEC – Environment Minister Yves-François Blanchet announced Thursday that he has ordered an impact study on the exploration and development of uranium in the province.
In consequence no certificate of authorization will be issued for the exploration or development of uranium in Quebec until the study is completed.
The Bureau d’audiences publiques sur l’environnement (BAPE) has been given a mandate to conduct the study starting next fall.
The BAPE does not have jurisdiction in northern Quebec where uranium exploration is underway. The region falls under the jurisdiction of the James Bay Northern Quebec Agreement.
But an exception in the BAPE law allows it to conduct generic studies, such as this one.
Blanchet said he hopes aboriginal communities in Quebec’s north will participate in the BAPE hearings.
Comments