Memorandum of Understanding between Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and Canada Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC).

The present Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and Canada Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) outlines areas for cooperation and administration of the Fisheries Act. Under this Understanding DFO will rely on the CNSC to take on responsibilities for the assessment and monitoring of environmental impacts on fish, including species listed in the Species at Risk Act and to make recommendations to DFO related to authorizations under the afore-mentioned Fisheries Act. The Nuclear Safety Commission has always reviewed impacts to the environment, including impacts to fish and fish habitat, under the Nuclear Safety and Control Act. Recent projects include the Darlington new nuclear power plant project, the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station refurbishment and the Key Lake uranium mine licence amendment. Under the Memorandun, the CNSC will ensure its reviews take into consideration the requirements of the revised Fisheries Act.The Minister of Fisheries and Oceans remains accountable for decisions under the habitat provisions of the Fisheries Act and for protecting aquatic species listed under the Species at Risk Act.