The Cree Nation of Mistissini disapproves the CNSC decision on Strateco's uranium project

MISTISSINI, QC, Oct. 17, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - The Cree Nation of Mistissini disapproves of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) decision regarding Strateco Resources uranium Project. With no surprise the Cree Nation of Mistissini learned of today's decision by the CNSC to approve Strateco's project and it clearly demonstrates that this government agency had not taken into account the social acceptability aspects of this project, which was clearly demonstrated by a great majority of members of the Cree Nation of Mistissini, when consulted.

"As with any uranium project, this type of development fundamentally contradicts with our traditional use of our territory. My people have thrived in Eeyou-Istchee in accordance with nature for millennia. Uranium projects will put at risk the environmental sustainability of this important part of the Province of Québec with the long lasting effects of radioactive waste and the uncertainty of being able to contain it for millions of years", said Chief Richard Shecapio.

Located at the heart of the Cree Nation of Mistissini's traditional territory, Strateco's uranium Project is located in the Otish Mountains drainage basin which in turn drains into Mistassini Lake, the largest fresh water lake in Québec; this region is also at the source of six main rivers of Québec and is sacred to the Cree.

The Cree Nation of Mistissini expects the Québec Government will agree that uranium development in the province will be a major threat to the environment, rivers and watersheds, as well as public health.  Following the announcement of the closure of the Gentilly-II Nuclear Power Plant, The Cree Nation of Mistissini feels the next logical step would be to stop uranium development across Quebec.

"The Cree Nation of Mistissini feels strongly that if this project goes ahead, other uranium exploration and mining development projects will follow and these projects would permanently alter our traditional way of life and put my people at risk and the Québec population.  We are looking at the bigger picture here; the CNSC is trying to make us look at only an exploration ramp, when we are really talking about opening our doors to uranium development in Eeyou-Istchee and the entire province", said Chief Shecapio.

The Cree Nation of Mistissini forms part of the Grand Council of the Crees of Quebec, and as quoted by Grand Chief Dr. Matthew Coon Come: "However we remain determined to protect our economies and way of life against the unique and grave threat posed by uranium mining and uranium waste. The Cree Nation will proceed with all necessary steps to ensure that our permanent uranium moratorium in Eeyou Istchee is recognized and implemented."

SOURCE: Cree Nation of Mistissini

Suzanne Bourdon
Relations with the Medias
514 868-0172   / [email protected]