Indigenous Communities Back Proposed Uranium Mine in Northern Saskatchewan

Several Indigenous communities in northern Saskatchewan have publicly expressed their support for a proposed uranium mine and mill project as it moves toward final approval before the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC).

The project, known as the Rook I development, is located in the southwestern Athabasca Basin, about 150 km north of La Loche. It is presented by Canadian mining company NexGen Energy Ltd. during hearings before the CNSC, which runs through February 12 and includes interventions from Indigenous nations, other stakeholders and the public.

Four Indigenous nations — the Clearwater River Dene Nation, a regional division of Métis Nation Saskatchewan, Birch Narrows Dene Nation and Buffalo River Dene Nation — have signed impact benefit agreements with the company and expressed backing for the mine during the hearings, highlighting potential economic opportunities and collaboration.

At the CNSC hearing in Saskatoon this week, Dene Nation elder Jimmy Montgrand emphasized that the project represents more than extraction, describing it as a long-term opportunity for future generations of local Indigenous youth and stressing the importance of ongoing partnership and respect for historical sites in the area.

The proposed mine would include both underground and surface facilities as well as an onsite mill expected to process an average of about 1,400 tonnes of ore per day if approved. Indigenous support marks a notable aspect of the regulatory process, which requires careful consideration of environmental protection, community benefits and safety measures before a licence is granted.