The site selection process for a proposed Deep Geologic Repository in Ontario has been extended to 2024.
The NWMO, the organization spearheading the research, says the extension from 2023 considers the impacts of the global pandemic and the various provincial lockdowns for the shift.
Officials say the added time will allow for more face-to-face engagement and interaction.
And it's also giving people in the area additional time to review and absorb information available.
Once a site is selected, construction is expected to start in 2033.
The two communities being considered as host are South Bruce and Ignace.
The NWMO's full statement can be found here.