Peace River Nuclear Power Project

Indigenous Engagement and Partnership Plan
Peace river nuclear power project

PDF Version 499 KB

Document reference number: 255

June 9, 2025

Draft Version

Contents

Glossary

  • Canadian Impact Assessment Registry (Registry): The Canadian Impact Assessment Registry is an internet site established and maintained by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada and will be the official record of the integrated assessment process for the project.
  • Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC): As a lifecycle regulator, the CNSC regulates the use of nuclear energy and materials to protect health, safety, security and the environment in accordance with the Nuclear Safety and Control Act. The CNSC also implements Canada's international commitments on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and disseminate objective scientific, technical and regulatory information to the public.
  • Hearing Procedures: Review panel document that provides an overview of how the public hearings will be conducted and explains how the public can participate in the hearings.
  • Indigenous Nations and communities: Indigenous Peoples who may wish to take part in an impact assessment. This term includes Indigenous Peoples connected by Nation, Band, geographical location, community roles and other shared values and identities.
  • Integrated Impact Assessment (integrated assessment): Review of the proposed project, led by a review panel that will meet the federal requirements for an integrated assessment under the Impact Assessment Act and the Nuclear Safety and Control Act.
  • Impact Assessment Act (IAA): The Impact Assessment Act and its regulations form the legal framework for federal impact assessments.
  • Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC): IAAC is a federal body accountable to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change. IAAC provides high-quality impact assessments that contribute to informed decision-making, in support of sustainable development. IAAC is the responsible authority for all federal impact assessments.
  • Integrated Review Panel (review panel): An Integrated Review Panel is a group of independent experts appointed by the president of IAAC to conduct an integrated assessment. At least one review panel member is appointed from the CNSC's roster. The members are selected based on their knowledge or experience relative to the potential effects of the project or knowledge of Indigenous issues and must be free from bias or conflict of interest relative to the project.
  • Impact Statement: Detailed technical document prepared by the proponent as per the requirements set out in the Integrated Tailored Impact Statement Guidelines which would include CNSC's requirements for the initial licence.
  • Memorandum of Understanding on Integrated Impact Assessments Under the Impact Assessment Act Between the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (MOU): The Memorandum of Understanding on Integrated Impact Assessments Under the Impact Assessment Act Between the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission creates an administrative framework within which IAAC and the CNSC can cooperatively allow for the exercise of the powers and duties established by the Impact Assessment Act and the Nuclear Safety and Control Act, as necessary, and as reflected in those Acts. The Memorandum of Understanding confirms the commitment of IAAC and the CNSC to work collaboratively to ensure that integrated assessments are conducted in an efficient manner.
  • Nuclear Safety and Control Act (NSCA): The Nuclear Safety and Control Act establishes the CNSC and sets out its mandate, responsibilities and powers.
  • Participant: Broadly defined to mean anyone appearing at or participating in an integrated assessment process, including public hearings, consistent with the CNSC's Rules of Procedures.
  • Integrated Tailored Impact Statement Guidelines (Integrated Guidelines): Document that provides direction and requirements for the proponent in preparing an Impact Statement.

1. Introduction

This document is a draft version of the Indigenous Engagement and Partnership Plan for the integrated assessment of the Peace River Nuclear Power Project (the project).

The Project includes physical activities regulated under the Nuclear Safety and Control Act (NSCA) and the Impact Assessment Act (IAA), so the assessment process, if an IA is determined to be required, will be undertaken in an integrated manner to include regulatory requirements from the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC). Pursuant to section 43 of the IAA, the Minister must refer to a review panel designated projects that include physical activities regulated under the NSCA. The review panel will conduct an integrated impact assessment (integrated assessment) that follows the framework outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding on Integrated Impact Assessments Under the Impact Assessment Act between the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (MOU).

IAAC and the CNSC will cooperate with the common objective that both legislative requirements are achieved in a single integrated assessment, with an assessment outcome including both a federal decision under the IAA, and an initial licensing decision under the NSCA.

The Indigenous Engagement and Partnership Plan (IEPP) outlines opportunities and methods for meaningful consultation and engagement with potentially affected Indigenous Nations and communities throughout the integrated assessment process for the project. Consultation and engagement will be coordinated by IAAC in collaboration with the CNSC. Consultation and engagement will be conducted in the spirit of reconciliation, renewal of Nation-to-Nation, government-to-government and Crown-Inuit relations, and respect for the Principles respecting the Government of Canada's relationship with Indigenous peoples. IAAC and the CNSC commit to build and strengthen partnerships with Indigenous Nations and communities, including opportunities to collaborate and maximize Indigenous leadership in integrated assessments.

IAAC and the CNSC use a model of consultation and engagement with Indigenous Peoples that emphasizes collaboration and consensus-buildingFootnote 1. This model supports the Government of Canada's aim to secure free, prior and informed consent throughout the integrated assessment process for all decisions that affect Indigenous Peoples' rights and interests. Seeking free, prior and informed consent is based on ensuring meaningful and effective participation of Indigenous Peoples from the outset of an impact assessment process and will vary based on the project impacts and the interests of Indigenous Peoples in the vicinity of the project.

Within the context of the integrated assessment process, IAAC and the CNSCFootnote 2 encourage the active participation of potentially impacted Indigenous Nations and communities, Indigenous women, Elders, 2SLGBTQIA+ and youth, in a manner that best reflects their specific cultural protocols, needs, and interests.

The IEPP for this project assessment addresses:

  • Crown consultation on the potential impacts of the project on the exercise of Aboriginal and treaty rights, commonly referred to as Indigenous rights, and accommodation, where appropriate;
  • involvement with Indigenous Nations and communities regarding Indigenous Knowledge they may contribute or apply when considering potential impacts, or other cultural considerations and customs that should be taken into account in project decision making;
  • engagement with Indigenous Nations and communities that encourages the participation of different subgroups of the population, in particular women, Elders, 2SLGBTQIA+, and youth;
  • the general tools and processes for consulting and engaging with Indigenous Nations and communities at all stages of the integrated assessment process, particularly during comment periods on key documents; and
  • the specific tools and processes for consultation and engagement with Indigenous Nations and communities that have shown an interest in elements, or in leading elements, of the integrated assessment.

Should there be unique features not identified in this IEPP, community-specific consultation plans may be developed to describe those unique features of the integrated assessment and consultation process pertaining to that Nation or community.

Along with the consultation described in this IEPP, Energy Alberta (the proponent) is also required to engage Indigenous Nations and communities specified in sections 3.1 and 3.2 below.

In addition to using the consultation and engagement tools and methods identified in this plan, IAAC and the CNSC also plan to involve Indigenous Nations, communities, and organizations who are interested in the integrated assessment process using the tools and methods described in the Public Participation Plan.

The IEPP is intended to be flexible and does not preclude IAAC and the CNSC from modifying the approaches described in this plan in order to accommodate changes that may occur during the assessment process.

2. Description of the Proposed Project

Energy Alberta is proposing the construction of two twin CANDU MONARK (four in total) nuclear reactors, located approximately 30 kilometres north of the town of Peace River, Alberta. As proposed, the Peace River Nuclear Power Project (the project) would cover 1,424 hectares in area and provide up to 4,800 megawatts of nuclear power in Alberta over an operation period of approximately 70 years. The generated energy would be sold to Alberta consumers and industry through the Alberta electrical grid. Please see figure 1 for a map of the proposed project areas under consideration.

For more information on the integrated assessment of the project or to view the information and comments received, visit the Peace River Nuclear Power project page on the Canadian Impact Assessment Registry (the Registry) at https://iaac-aeic.gc.ca/050/evaluations/proj/89430.

3. Indigenous Peoples

IAAC and the CNSC have identified the following Indigenous Nations and communities that may be potentially impacted by the project. This includes Indigenous Nations and communities where the project may adversely impact the exercise of rights of Indigenous Peoples as recognized and affirmed in section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, and Indigenous Peoples with rights or interests related to the factors of an assessment identified in section 22 of the IAAFootnote 3.

The list of Indigenous Nations and communities identified may change as knowledge of the adverse effects within federal jurisdiction and potential impacts of the project is gained, or as the project design develops over the course of the integrated assessment process.

Although the integrated assessment process is not a rights-determination process, IAAC and the CNSC acknowledge that the content and extent of the duty to consult and, where appropriate, accommodate varies according to the nature of the rights (established or potential) and the severity of the project's potential impact on these rights. IAAC and the CNSC's assessment of the extent of the duty to consult and, where appropriate, accommodate is, at the time of publication of this IEPP, in its preliminary phase. IAAC and the CNSC wish to complete this exercise in collaboration with Indigenous Nations and communities throughout the integrated assessment process. It is anticipated that the role of Indigenous Nations and communities will vary depending on factors that may include: their interest in participating; the type and seriousness of potential impacts or cumulative impacts on the community and their rights; and the nature of the community's interest in the lands, waters or resources that may be potentially affected (e.g., resident, land-user, traditional territory, Aboriginal title claim, etc.).

The federal integrated assessment process aims to create opportunities for Indigenous Peoples that may be affected by a project to share perspectives and voice concerns to strengthen the assessment process, inform project design, lead to better outcomes and assist with follow-up and monitoring. IAAC and the CNSC endeavor to achieve a respectful process that recognizes a wide range of perspectives and viewpoints. IAAC and the CNSC welcome input from Indigenous Nations or communities potentially impacted by the project and encourage their participation and leadership in the integrated assessment process, while remaining committed to respecting Indigenous Peoples' cultures, values, and languages and their right to self-determination.

The Government of Canada is committed to renewing its relationship with Indigenous Peoples by implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People Act (UN Declaration). During this process, IAAC and the CNSC are committed to aligning with the principles, objectives, and spirit of the UN Declaration, and to ensure that the rights of Indigenous Peoples are respected throughout the integrated assessment. IAAC and the CNSC are committed to a robust process guided by an openness to Indigenous perspectives, a commitment to reconciliation, and an aim to maximize Indigenous leadership in integrated assessments. This involves cooperation, partnership and carrying out integrated assessments with the aim to secure free, prior, and informed consent and support self-determination. IAAC and the CNSC are supporting this commitment through the objectives and activities outlined in this IEPP.

3.1. Consultation list of Indigenous Nations and communities

IAAC and the CNSC will consult with Indigenous Nations and communities listed in the list below who have a likelihood of a potential adverse impact on their Indigenous rights and/or treaty rights, values, and interests and, where appropriate, to accommodate impacts, based on information currently available and shared with IAAC and the CNSC. These consultations will comprise an integral part of the work that will support the assessment of the project. This list may be updated throughout the consultation and engagement process as IAAC and CNSC receive and gather more information on the potential impacts of the project and Indigenous and treaty rights that may be affected.

Indigenous Nations and communities to be consulted

LISTED ALPHABETICALLY

  • Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation
  • Beaver First Nation
  • Cadotte Lake Métis Nation
  • Dene Tha' First Nation
  • Driftpile Cree Nation
  • Duncan's First Nation
  • East Prairie Métis Settlement
  • Fort Chipewyan Métis Nation
  • Gift Lake Metis Settlement
  • Horse Lake First Nation
  • Little Red River Cree Nation
  • Lubicon Lake Band
  • Otipemisiwak Métis Government
  • Mikisew Cree First Nation
  • Peavine Metis Settlement
  • Paddle Prairie Métis Settlement
  • Tallcree Tribal Government
  • Sucker Creek First Nation
  • Woodland Cree First Nation

3.2 Additional Indigenous Nations and communities to be engaged

IAAC and the CNSC will plan on engaging the Indigenous Nations and communities whose rights are unlikely to be impacted by the Project but who have interests or concerns related to the Project based on information currently available and shared with IAAC and the CNSC, and who have expressed an interest in participating in the assessment process. IAAC and the CNSC will engage with the Indigenous Nations and communities who may be identified to understand their concerns and will endeavour to address any potential impacts that the Project may cause to the identified Nation or community, including potential solutions to mitigate those impacts.

The identification of the Indigenous Nations and communities that IAAC and the CNSC will engage with will be presented in the final IEPP.

4. Engagement and Consultation Objectives and Methods

The list below includes objectives and methods identified by IAAC, the CNSC and Indigenous Nations and communities to ensure meaningful consultation, engagement and collaboration throughout the integrated assessment process, with the aim of securing decisions on free, prior and informed consent for decisions that affect Indigenous Peoples' rights and interests. IAAC and the CNSC aim to support and facilitate the participation of Indigenous Nations and communities in integrated assessments in accordance with Indigenous Nations' and communities' laws, customs and processes.

Indigenous Nations and communities are involved in the development and/or revision of key documents, including this Plan, the draft Integrated Guidelines, the draft review panel's Terms of Reference, the proponent's Impact Statement, and the draft potential conditions.

Indigenous engagement objectives and methods

  • Prioritize relationship building with Indigenous Nations and communities by communicating in an ongoing, and preferred manner
  • Respect the consultation protocols and approaches favoured by Indigenous Nations and communities and prioritize mutual learning opportunities to better understand cultural and territorial contexts of distinct Indigenous Nations and communities, including incorporating Indigenous worldviews in decision-making processes
  • Develop a common awareness of the integrated assessment process, highlighting opportunities for meaningful participation and offering individualized and/or group training sessions
  • Provide opportunities for collaboration and maximizing Indigenous leadership in the integrated assessment
  • Encourage and facilitate the sharing, inclusion and consideration of Indigenous Knowledge
  • Encourage Indigenous data sovereignty and the principles of Ownership, Control, Access and Possession/Stewardship (OCAP/OCAS) where Indigenous Nations and communities have control over their own data, how it is framed and how it is managed
  • Determine an agreed upon approach to manage written and oral confidential information to prevent unauthorized disclosure of Indigenous Knowledge
  • Support capacity building and provide funding under IAAC's Participant Funding ProgramFootnote 4 to support the participation of Indigenous Nations and communities, including Elders, youth, children, women, men, persons with disabilities, and gender-diverse and two-spirit persons in the integrated assessment process
  • Seek to reduce duplication and administrative burden for Indigenous Nations and communities in the integrated assessment process
  • Provide opportunities for early identification of issues and concerns
  • Offer technical meetings with the proponent and/or federal authorities to support Indigenous Nations and communities in their review of key documents throughout the integrated assessment process, while considering timelines and capacity needs
  • Offer to collaboratively draft sections of reports and assessments, including offer to collaborate on the assessment of impacts on the exercise of Indigenous rights and interests
  • Develop community-specific consultation protocols and arrangements as appropriate
  • Establish clear processes for identifying and designing accommodation measures, as applicable
  • Provide technical support and timely responses to questions and requests for information and documentation
  • Provide translation services into local Indigenous languages, when requested

5. Phase-by-Phase Engagement and Consultation Activities

IAAC and the CNSC commenced engagement efforts on the project prior to the start of the Planning phase for the integrated assessment. Pre-planning activities were carried out to ensure Indigenous Nations and communities were informed and aware of the integrated assessment process and to validate their potential interest in the assessment. IAAC and the CNSC also encouraged and expected the proponent to engage with potentially affected or interested Indigenous Nations and communities prior to submitting their Initial Project Description.

The sections below provide a description of the main phases of the integrated assessment process and methods of consultation and engagement, including opportunities for collaboration. IAAC and the CNSC encourage Indigenous leadership and Indigenous-led approaches in the conduct of integrated assessments. Indigenous Nations and communities identified in section 3 who are interested in consultation activities beyond those included in the sections below are invited to develop a community-specific consultation plan with IAAC and the CNSC. Community-specific consultation plans are developed collaboratively. They are used to reflect specific commitments, activities, or opportunities beyond those found in the IEPP, and guide consultation with an individual Indigenous Nation or community on the proposed project.

Phase by phase Indigenous engagement and consultation activities

Phase 1 – Planning

Time limit: 180 days (excluding any time limit suspension)

This Phase commenced on April 14, 2025, with the acceptance of the Initial Project Description (IPD).

Expected activities of IAAC and the CNSC:

  • Offer grant funding to support participation during the comment periods of the Planning phase.
  • Seek to learn about the Indigenous Nations and communities who may potentially be impacted by or interested in the proposed project, for example by hosting meetings or open houses, as well as participating in community events and cultural activities, where invited.
  • Share information and/or provide training to Indigenous Nations and communities to support their understanding of the integrated assessment process, to highlight opportunities for collaboration and Indigenous leadership in impact assessment, to seek input on key issues and concerns and understand how the CNSC regulates throughout the lifecycle of a project. Where there is interest, collaborate with Indigenous Nations and communities to draft/review preliminary understandings related to potential project impacts on Indigenous rights and interests.
  • Invite comments on the Summary of the Initial Project Description provided by the proponent. Comments used to develop the Summary of Issues provided to the proponent.
  • Invite comments on five draft planning documents:
    • Integrated Tailored Impact Statement Guidelines (the Integrated Guidelines)
    • Indigenous Engagement and Partnership Plan (IEPP)
    • Public Participation Plan (PPP)
    • Permitting Plan
    • Cooperation Plan

Comments can include the identification of existing regional studies or plans that could inform the assessment of the project.

  • Inform Indigenous Nations and communities of the ways in which comments and information from Indigenous Nations and communities may be shared (with permission) with other participants in the integrated assessment process, such as the proponent, federal authorities, or provincial authorities.
  • Information sessions (virtual and/or in person), open houses and meetings will be held to:
    • Inform Indigenous Nations and communities about the project and the integrated assessment process; and
    • Provide the opportunity to comment on the draft plans
  • This phase ends with the posting of the Notice of Commencement of the Impact Assessment and related documents. IAAC and the CNSC continue to respond to comments, questions, or requests.

Potential activities of Indigenous Nations and communities:

  • Communicate participation preferences to IAAC and the CNSC and collaborate in planning meetings, workshops, etc.
  • Where appropriate, share consultation protocols with IAAC and the CNSC, and desired approach for seeking a community's free, prior and informed consent.
  • Review the Summary of the Initial Project Description and share comments, concerns, or issues with IAAC and the CNSC through the comment period or through direct correspondence.
  • Work with IAAC and the CNSC to confirm that input is accurately reflected in the Summary of Issues document.
  • Review draft plans of interest and share comments, concerns, or issues with IAAC and the CNSC through the comment period or through direct correspondence.
  • Work with IAAC and the CNSC to confirm that input is accurately reflected in the relevant planning documents.
  • Collaborate with IAAC and the CNSC on a community-specific consultation or engagement plan, which can be appended to the final IEPP.
  • Communicate with the proponent about desired involvement in studies related to the integrated assessment process, including associated funding.

Phase 2 – Impact Statement

Time limit: Up to 3 years (excluding any time limit suspension)

This phase commences upon posting the Notice of Commencement of the Integrated Assessment and related documents.

Expected activities of IAAC and the CNSC:

  • Offer to discuss how input from an Indigenous Nation or community on the Planning phase documents were considered.
  • Offer funding to Indigenous Nations and communities to support participation in the remaining phases of the integrated assessment process.
  • Continue to share information (meetings, information sessions, and/or open houses) and/or provide training to Indigenous Nations and communities on the integrated assessment process and how the CNSC regulates.
  • Post documents relevant to the integrated assessment and comments received on the Registry.
  • Encourage the sharing of Indigenous Knowledge and information with the proponent to strengthen the development of the proponent's Impact Statement.
  • Work with Indigenous Nations and communities to implement the IEPP.
  • Work with Indigenous Nations and communities to implement community-specific consultation plans, including collaboration/partnership approaches, where applicable.
  • Invite comments on the draft review panel Terms of Reference.
  • Discuss the assessment of potential impacts on rights and interests with interested Indigenous Nations and communities.
  • Notify Indigenous Nations and communities when the proponent's Impact Statement is posted to the Registry website.
  • Hold information sessions to explain the process and to provide an opportunity to comment on the Impact Statement.
  • Work with Indigenous Nations and communities to develop partnership approaches, where appropriate, for the review of the proponent's Impact Statement.
  • Hold a comment period on the proponent's Impact Statement.
  • Seek the views of Indigenous Nations and communities on the project's potential impacts on the exercise of their rights and discuss whether the proponent has adequately identified mitigation and/or accommodation measures, as appropriate, in its Impact Statement.
  • Organize meetings, as needed, with Indigenous Nations and communities, the proponent, and expert authorities to discuss technical issues.
  • Notify Indigenous Nations and communities when the final review panel Terms of Reference are posted to the Registry and provide an update on timelines for the review panel appointment.
  • If applicable, IAAC and the CNSC will invite comments on any agreement with other jurisdictions pertaining to the establishment of a review panel or the coordination of assessment procedures.

Potential activities of Indigenous Nations and communities:

  • Apply for funding to participate in the remaining phases of the integrated assessment process.
  • Provide feedback on partnership opportunities and the implementation of pertinent consultation or engagement plans or agreements.
  • Where there is interest, work with IAAC and the CNSC to establish a collaborative assessment of potential project impacts on the exercise of their rights and interests.
  • Review the draft review panel Terms of Reference and share comments, concerns, or issues with IAAC and the CNSC through the comment period or through direct correspondence.
  • Share potential candidates for review panel membership.
  • Share points of view on the project's potential impacts on the exercise of rights and interests with the proponent to inform the Impact Statement and with IAAC and the CNSC to support its review of the Impact Statement.
  • Work with the proponent to gather relevant information about the project's adverse effects (direct and incidental) and discuss mitigation and monitoring measures to address possible adverse effects with the proponent to inform the proponent's Impact Statement.
  • Review the Impact Statement and share comments, concerns, or issues with IAAC and the CNSC through the comment period or through direct correspondence.

Phase 3 – Impact Assessment

Time limit: 300 days, up to 600 days (excluding any time limit suspension)

Part 1 – This part of the Impact Assessment phase is led by the review panel and occurs, immediately after IAAC issues the notice under s.19(4) of the Impact Assessment Act indicating that it is satisfied that the proponent has submitted necessary information and studies

IAAC will establish the time limits for this phase including the time limit for the submission of the review panel report and for the posting of IAAC's recommendations on potential conditions on the Registry.

Expected activities of IAAC and the CNSC:

  • Work with Indigenous Nations and communities to implement the IEPP and any community-specific consultation plan, if applicable.
  • Increase awareness and understanding of the integrated assessment process, including opportunities for meaningful participation.
  • Collaborate with Indigenous Nations to submit preliminary analyses, recommendations and conclusions related to potential project impacts on Indigenous rights or interests to the review panel.
  • Obtain the views of Indigenous Nations and communities on the information contained in the Impact Statement.
  • Encourage Indigenous Nations and communities to participate in the public hearings, held by the review panel.
  • Where there is interest, collaborate, co-draft, or co-present with Indigenous Nations and communities during the review panel's public hearings.
  • Work with federal and provincial authorities towards the goal of minimizing impacts on Indigenous rights, and where appropriate, identifying potential accommodation measures.

Potential activities of Indigenous Nations and communities:

  • Participate in the hearings and additional opportunities organized by the review panel.
  • If interested, invite the review panel to visit and/or hold a hearing session in the community.
  • Work with the review panel to ensure the hearings incorporate cultural considerations and is inclusive for community members.
  • Provide written, oral or multimedia submissions to inform the review panel process.
  • Collaborate with the Crown to submit preliminary analysis, recommendations and conclusions related to potential project impacts on Indigenous rights or interests to the review panel.

Expected activities by Review Panel:

Review Panel orientation and training may occur during the Impact Statement phase. The following activities may take place during either the Impact Statement or early Impact Assessment phase:

  • Reach out to Indigenous Nations and communities for cultural training and orientation activities should an Indigenous Nation or community be willing to provide this to the panel.
  • Read through the submissions from Indigenous Nations and communities on the Registry website to familiarize themselves with what has been shared to-date by participants.

During the Impact Assessment phase:

  • Gather information from participants about their views on the project, its impacts and possible solutions.
  • Post updates and information on the Registry and maintain an email distribution list to keep participants informed.
  • May request additional information from participants, including the proponent, if required.
  • May organize additional participation opportunities in order to fulfill the review panel Terms of Reference, including with Indigenous Nations and communities.
  • May organize information sessions to explain hearing procedures and timelines for submissions to the review panel, including with Indigenous Nations.
  • Invite information from Indigenous Nations and communities on the potential impacts of the project on Indigenous rights and interests, and potential conditions and mitigation measures to address those impacts.
  • Hold meaningful and accessible public hearings in the communities most likely to be affected by the project. Participation timelines, dates, locations and duration for the public hearings will be determined by the review panel and will be announced in a Notice of Public Hearing.
  • Write an impact assessment report with rationale, conclusions, recommendations and conditions, including on matters related to Indigenous Peoples and project impacts on the exercise of Indigenous rights.

Phase 3 – Impact Assessment

Part 2 – Led by IAAC and the CNSC, upon submission of the review panel's Impact Assessment Report

Expected activities of IAAC and the CNSC:

  • Post the Impact Assessment Report and updated draft IAAC potential conditions to the Registry website and inform Indigenous Nations and communities.
  • Obtain comments/views on additions or changes to the panel's proposed conditions.
  • Consult Indigenous Nations and communities on proposed complementary measures or other accommodation measures (as applicable) relating to potential adverse impacts on the exercise of their rights and interests.
  • Work with Indigenous Nations and communities towards the resolution of outstanding issues.
  • In collaboration with Indigenous Nations and communities, finalize the analysis and conclusions in the Consultation and Accommodation Report.
  • Submit the Impact Assessment Report, draft IAAC potential conditions and the Consultation and Accommodation Report to the Governor in Council to inform federal decision making.

Potential activities of Indigenous Nations and communities:

  • Present points of view to IAAC and the CNSC on the adequacy of the consultation throughout the integrated assessment process.
  • Review, draft, or co-draft Nation- or community-specific sections of the Consultation and Accommodation Report
  • Provide comments on the Impact Assessment Report and potential federal conditions.
  • Identify key considerations that will be used to support and inform the federal decision-making process.
  • Where there is interest, share with IAAC and the CNSC the outcomes of community process or decision regarding consent for the proposed project.

Phase 4 – Decision Phase

Time limit: Up to 90 days (excluding any time limit suspension), which starts following the posting of IAACs recommendations on potential additional conditions.

Expected activities of IAAC and the CNSC:

  • Develop materials needed to support Governor in Council decision
  • Post the Decision Statement on the Registry website, with reasons and conditions, where applicable.
  • Inform the proponent, Indigenous Nations and communities, and the public about the Decision Statement issued by the Governor in Council and, if applicable, any new conditions with which the proponent must comply.
  • Maintain an ongoing dialogue with Indigenous Nations and communities, providing opportunities to learn about next steps.

Potential activities of Indigenous Nations and communities:

  • Continue dialogue with the Crown and proponent if there are outstanding issues.
  • Independently reach out to Ministers that may be responsible for decision making, if desired.

Phase 5 – Post-Decision

(if the project is approved)

Timeline: Ongoing. Begins after the Decision Statement is issued to the proponent.

The Decision Statement will expire if the proponent does not substantially begin to carry out the project within a certain period.

Expected activities of IAAC and the CNSC:

  • Make an initial licensing decision under the NSCA, if the IA decision by Governor in Council allows the project to proceed. This step occurs after the Decision Statement has been issued by the Governor in Council.
  • Inform Indigenous Nations and communities, the proponent, and the public about the Decision Statement issued by the Governor in Council, and the review panel's licensing decision.
  • Undertake compliance and enforcement activities, including with Indigenous Nations and communities, where appropriate. Compliance verification involves regular inspections, evaluations, and reviews of operational activities and documentation to confirm that licensees adhere to laws, regulations and licence conditions.
  • Post compliance and enforcement information and results on IAAC's and/or the CNSC's Registry website, where appropriate.
  • Transfer the Federal Crown consultation coordination responsibilities from IAAC to the CNSC.
  • The CNSC continues to engage with Indigenous Nations and communities and undertakes its Crown consultation responsibilities as required, if the proponent pursues licensing of the construction, operations and eventual decommissioning of the project.
  • The CNSC administers participant funding to support Indigenous participation in future licensing processes throughout the lifecycle of the project.
  • The CNSC will collaborate with Indigenous Nations and communities on oversight, monitoring, and reporting throughout the life cycle of the project.
  • The CNSC will inform Indigenous Nations and communities through various communication channels and fulfills its duty to consult Indigenous peoples throughout CNSC's regulatory phases, promoting reconciliation and integrating their input into regulatory processes.

Potential activities of Indigenous Nations and communities:

  • Participate in relevant follow-up and monitoring activities.
  • Submit comments related to compliance and/or enforcement concerns
  • Participate in compliance and enforcement activities, where relevant.
  • Submit comments to IAAC on potential amendments to the Decision Statement, should an amendment be required.
  • Work with the Crown to ensure that compliance and enforcement activities are tailored to the specific interests of the Nation and its capacity to participate in compliance oversight activities.
  • Engage and collaborate with the CNSC as part of ongoing oversight, reporting and monitoring of the project.
  • Participate in the CNSC regulatory processes and decision-making processes for future licensing phases.

6. The Federal Review Team and Provincial Coordination

A collective of federal authorities, known as the federal review team, will also participate in the integrated assessment. The federal review team contributes their specialist or expert knowledge to the assessment process and supports IAAC and the CNSC in their work with Indigenous Nations and communities to understand and address impacts on Indigenous rights and interests. The federal authorities that may participate in the assessment include:

Other Federal Authorities – Permitting Plan

The Permitting Plan issued at the end of the Planning Phase describes the permits and authorizations that may be required for the project to proceed.

Federal authorities identified in the Permitting Plan as well as those with additional expert advice will engage as needed with IAAC, the proponent, Indigenous Nations and communities and other parties to clarify information requirements related to its specialist or expert information and knowledge.

The Permitting Plan can be viewed on the Registry website (89430).

Provincial Authorities and Regulators – Cooperation Plan

Although the project is under federal jurisdiction of the IAA and the NSCA, activities related to the project may be subject to provincial EA requirements under the Alberta Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, and provincial permitting and approval requirements that include an assessment of environmental effects.

IAAC and the CNSC have developed a draft Cooperation Plan to set out intentions and plans for a cooperative assessment process for the project. The draft Cooperation Plan can be viewed on the Registry website (89430).

7. Participant Funding

In addition to funding made available for the Planning phase, funding is also available to support Indigenous Nations and communities to participate throughout the remainder of the integrated assessment process through IAAC's Participant Funding Program. This participant funding will be made available to support commenting on the proponent's Impact Statement, as well as draft version of IAAC's Impact Assessment report and potential conditions.

For information about the activities that are eligible for funding or how to apply for funding, please see IAAC's Participant Funding Program National Program Guidelines at the following page: https://www.canada.ca/en/impact-assessment-agency/services/public-participation-impact-assessments/funding-programs/participant-funding-program.html

The CNSC provides funding opportunities through the Indigenous and Stakeholder Capacity Fund (ISCF). Funding opportunities through the ISCF provide capacity for Indigenous Nations and communities to build knowledge in the nuclear sector and to engage in CNSC's regulatory processes prior to, and throughout the lifecycle of nuclear facilities and activities in Canada. Information related to the ISCF funding streams and the ISCF Application Guide can be found at: Indigenous and Stakeholder Capacity Fund

8. Protecting Confidential Indigenous Knowledge

Indigenous Knowledge shared in confidence is protected from disclosure under section 119 of the IAA, except if written consent is provided, or if the information is publicly available. In addition, Indigenous Knowledge shared in confidence could be shared with certain parties if disclosure is necessary for procedural fairness and natural justice or for use in legal proceedings. This ensures that interested parties have a fair opportunity to participate in processes that would likely affect their interests, and that they have access to necessary information and evidence relied on by the decision-maker.

Should an Indigenous Nation or community wish to provide documents that contain confidential or sensitive information that should be protected from release to the public, please contact IAAC (see section 10) before submitting the information. This will ensure that the submission is handled appropriately. Note, IAAC and the CNSC must consult with each Indigenous Nation or community prior to disclosing Indigenous Knowledge shared in confidence.

Polices and guidance for the consideration and protection of Indigenous Knowledge include:

9. How to Submit Comments

IAAC and the CNSC invite Indigenous Nations and communities to share comments and information during the integrated assessment process. IAAC and the CNSC are open to receiving comments and information through a variety of means, including verbally or in writing. Indigenous Nations and communities are invited to submit comments by contacting IAAC directly (see section 10) or through the Impact Assessment Registry website (89430) by clicking «Submit a Comment». Attachments can also be uploaded using this function. If you encounter difficulties with the submission process, please contact IAAC (see section 10).

Comments, in your preferred format (i.e., written, oral, visual), and other documents received by IAAC and the CNSC will form part of the project file and will be posted on the Registry website, with the exception of comments or documents deemed confidential or subject to a non-disclosure clause. The IAAC's Submission Policy determines what information can be shared publicly and what information should remain private. For more information on how we protect your privacy, please refer to the IAAC's Privacy Notice. If you do not want your comment to be posted on the Registry website, please contact IAAC before submitting your comment.

10. General Contact Information

If you have questions or need information, please contact the IAAC office responsible for the coordinating the Integrated assessment process for this project:

Integrated Assessment for the Peace River Nuclear Power Project
Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
160 Elgin Street, 22nd Floor Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0H3
Telephone: 613-699-6778
Email: peacenuclear-nucleairepaix@iaac-aeic.gc.ca

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