Nova Scotia experienced a uranium exploration boom between 1976 and 1981, with companies like Shell Canada, Esso Minerals, and Gulf Minerals scouring the province for uranium deposits. But the public quickly pushed back.

• More than 44 public meetings were held across Nova Scotia.

• The overwhelming majority of them voiced strong opposition to uranium mining.

• In 1981, in the midst of a provincial election, a temporary moratorium on uranium exploration was imposed.

• In 2009, the NDP government turned that moratorium into a full legislated ban, a move driven by public health and environmental concerns.

That ban stood for 16 years, until 2025.

On February 18, 2025, the government introduced an omnibus bill that repeals the legislated ban on uranium mining and exploration.

According to the government, the repeal is about:

• Allowing government-led research into uranium deposits

• Help improve understanding of geohazards like radon and uranium in groundwater

• Exploring potential links between uranium and other critical minerals like lithium and copper

• Making Nova Scotia more "self-reliant" and economically competitive

Premier Tim Houston stated that previous governments “lacked the courage to act,” and suggested uranium could contribute to job creation and revenue to support public needs.

Exploration permits have already been issued near Chain Lakes and East Dalhousie, areas home to vulnerable forests, wetlands, and wildlife.

• These decisions were made without any meaningful public consultation, despite the long-standing opposition of Nova Scotians to uranium development.

• The ministerial order that currently prevents industrial activity is not permanent—it can be revoked at any time, behind closed doors.

• Once exploration begins, the damage to ecosystems and watersheds could be immediate and irreversible, putting biodiversity, drinking water, and rural livelihoods at risk.

Now is the time to act—before decisions are made that can’t be undone.

We believe uranium mining has no place in Nova Scotia.

• It contradicts our provincial goals on climate, conservation, and rural sustainability.

• It threatens the very landscapes our communities rely on.

We are calling for:

• An immediate moratorium on uranium exploration

• Full public consultation and environmental review

• Permanent protection for sensitive regions like Chain Lakes