OTTAWA, ON, Sept. 18, 2026 /CNW/ -- Canada is advancing the critical infrastructure needed to build a stronger, more sustainable, and more independent economy. Investing in nation-building infrastructure is essential to strengthening economic resilience, enhancing energy security, and creating long-term prosperity by connecting communities, supporting industry, enhancing sustainability, and attracting investment.

Today, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, President of the King's Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs, Internal Trade and One Canadian Economy, 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 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. Under the umbrella of Canada's first-ever Nuclear Energy Strategy, released in June 2026, the project would help align Canada's growing nuclear sector, support energy security and economic competitiveness, create long-term employment opportunities, ensure Canada maintains its world-class safety standards, and generate lasting benefits for Indigenous communities and the region. It also supports Canada's long-term clean energy future by helping sustain a reliable, low-carbon electricity system for generations.

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.

The Government of Canada is committed to advancing projects that strengthen Canada's economy, reinforce national resilience, and support Indigenous partnership and participation. Canada is advancing long-term growth while continuing to uphold Indigenous rights, maintain strong environmental protections, and ensure meaningful public participation in project decisions.

Quote

"In the face of global uncertainty, Canada is building strength at home. 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."

The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, President of the King's Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs, Internal Trade and One Canadian Economy

"Canada is a Tier 1 nuclear nation and bringing that leadership into the 21^st 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. As this process moves forward, we remain committed to meaningful Indigenous engagement, public participation, and rigorous decision-making on behalf of Canadians."

The Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

Quick facts

• 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.
• The DGR approach was selected as Canada's long-term solution for managing used nuclear fuel following a three-year study and national dialogue with experts and the public. It aligns with internationally recognized best practices in countries with nuclear power programs.
• Currently, Canada's used nuclear fuel is safely stored in interim facilities at reactor sites, with ongoing monitoring, security, and maintenance.
• The project is currently undergoing a federal impact assessment and Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission licensing, alongside a parallel regulatory assessment and approval process by WLON.
• A notice regarding the potential listing of the Deep Geological Repository Project under the Building Canada Act will be published in the Canada Gazette on September 19, 2026.
• Publication in the Canada Gazette is a required step before the Governor in Council may decide whether to list a project as one of national interest under the Building Canada Act.
• Publication of a notice does not mean a listing decision has been made.
• The proposed Deep Geological Repository Project is one of 18 projects and 9 transformative strategies that are currently being supported by the Major Projects Office.
• Listing this project would bring all federal permitting under one coordinated framework, simplifying the regulatory process to provide greater predictability and efficiency.
• For greater clarity, the licences issued by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission under the Nuclear Safety and Control Act are not included in Schedule 2 of the Building Canada Act, meaning that the CNSC retains its independent, arms-length decision making role to ensure the project will be built safely and in accordance with international treaties.
• The Government of Canada established the Major Projects Office to accelerate projects of national interest and advance transformative strategies that help build a stronger, more independent, and more resilient Canadian economy.
• The public comment period for the Deep Geological Repository project remains open until October 26, 2026.

Associated Links

Building Canada Act

SOURCE One Canadian Economy