Hearings currently taking place in Saskatoon are pivotal in determining the fate of the largest uranium mining venture in Canada’s history. NexGen Energy Ltd., a Canadian mining firm, is undergoing its second set of hearings for the Rook I mine proposal, which involves the establishment of an underground uranium mine in the Athabasca Basin, situated approximately 150 kilometers north of La Loche near the Alberta border.
Representatives from various Indigenous communities are present to learn more about the proposed mine. NexGen has been advocating for the Rook I mine for over a decade, with CEO Leigh Curyer expressing optimism about its potential impact on Saskatchewan and Canada’s nuclear production capabilities.
The company estimates that the mine could yield $32 billion in job creation and infrastructure development in Saskatchewan and a further $38 billion in revenue at the federal level. After obtaining provincial approval in 2023, the project’s final approval now rests with the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, which will decide whether to grant NexGen a license to construct the mine and mill in the designated area, with the mill expected to process around 1,400 tons of ore daily.
The ongoing hearings mark the second round of discussions held by the federal safety agency in Saskatoon. NexGen reported that out of the 48 written statements submitted, two were neutral, and two opposed the construction of the mine in the region.
The proposed mining site falls within the traditional territories of several First Nations communities, all of which have shown support for the project. Representatives from Birch Narrows Dene Nation, Buffalo River Dene Nation, Clearwater River Dene Nation, and the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan attended the public hearing. NexGen pledges to create 350 jobs during the construction phase and an additional 490 over the mine’s 24-year lifespan, with a commitment to hiring 75% Indigenous workers.
Environmental concerns, including water contamination and impacts on traditional hunting grounds, were raised during the hearings. NexGen has engaged with local communities to address these concerns and ensure environmental stewardship throughout the mine’s operations. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission will closely evaluate 13 safety requirements, including radiation protection and environmental considerations, before deciding on the project’s approval.
The commission has a 120-day timeline from the conclusion of the hearings to make a decision on NexGen’s mining project. The public hearing is set to conclude on Thursday.