A report in the Ottawa Citizen confirms that the federal government plans to privatize Atomic Energy of Canada Limited and is currently engaged in a bidding process to select a private sector service provider to manage day-to-day operations:
Interested companies and consortiums are currently seeking qualified bidder status based on government approved technical criteria, financial capability and other certifications. One is Canadian National Energy Alliance, comprised of Energy Solutions Canada, SNC-Lavalin, Lockheed Martin and CH2MHill.
Later this year, AECL is to establish a wholly-owned subsidiary, known as the site operating company, to take over all of its operations, including the workforce. Next year, the government hopes to award a six-year contract (with a four-year option) to the winning bidder. AECL will then transfer total control of the site operating company to the new contractor, which will be accountable to AECL.
The private site operating company will be responsible for all employment matters, including compensation, pensions and benefits and collective bargaining agreements. It also is expected to be accountable to the CNSC for full compliance with the terms and conditions of CNSC-issued licences and any other compliance actions.
The fully restructured AECL will oversee the contract, including that the contractor follow government directives and policy.
The story states that almost 3000 current employees will be transferred to the new service provider, leaving 50-70 workers at AECL to serve in administrative oversight roles.
