Monday, September 21, 2026
The Government of Canada announced the publication of a notice in the Canada Gazette for the Deep Geological Repository (DGR) Project, marking the next step in considering whether the project should be listed under Schedule 1 of the Building Canada Act (the Act) as a project of national interest.
“The Deep Geological Repository Project is the type of strategic, nation-building infrastructure that can strengthen Canada’s clean energy future, support investment, and provide lasting benefits for Indigenous communities and future generations. The publication of this notice reflects our commitment to transparency, consultation, and responsible decision-making as we consider projects that are in the national interest,” said Dominic LeBlanc, Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs, Internal Trade and One Canadian Economy.
The proposed DGR Project represents nationally significant infrastructure that would provide a permanent solution for the long-term management of Canada’s used nuclear fuel while supporting Canada’s position as a global leader in reliable, non-emitting nuclear energy.
The Nuclear Waste Management Organization’s (NWMO) Deep Geological Repository for Canada’s Used Nuclear Fuel will consist of a network of underground tunnels and placement rooms built to a depth of 650-800 metres below ground, designed to safely contain all current and future used nuclear fuel from Canada’s existing nuclear reactor fleet.
As part of an extensive site-selection process, Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation and the Township of Ignace have agreed to advance discussions on hosting this nationally transformative infrastructure.
Publication in the Canada Gazette is a required step under the Act. The notice formally advises the public that the Government of Canada is considering whether to list the project under the Act and provides interested parties with an opportunity to submit written comments before any listing decision is made. Publication of the notice does not indicate a decision to list the project.
Canadians are invited to provide comments until October 26, 2026. Feedback received will be considered alongside feedback received in consultations with potentially impacted Indigenous communities, engagement with provincial partners, and advice from relevant federal ministers as part of the Government’s decision-making process. The Government of Canada continues to consult with Indigenous rights holders and communities regarding the project.
“Canada is a Tier 1 nuclear nation and bringing that leadership into the 21st century under our Nuclear Energy Strategy means managing every part of the nuclear fuel cycle – so we can not only build big things, but do it safely. The proposed Deep Geological Repository Project would support the long-term sustainability of Canada’s nuclear sector, strengthen energy security, and create lasting economic opportunities for local communities and across Ontario and beyond,” said Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.
Featured image: (NWMO)
