Quebec Mining Conflicts from East to West, North to South | MiningWatch
The Algonquin Nation’s traditional territory straddles the Quebec-Ontario border extending along Quebec’s western border up the Gatineau and Ottawa River watersheds. The Algonquins have never signed a treaty and are not party to the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement, so there are no established protocols for consultation or participation in the review of mineral exploration or development projects in their territory.
• MiningWatch has engaged with three Quebec Algonquin nations currently struggling with mineral exploration projects in their territories. Wolf Lake and Eagle Village have been making efforts to constructively engage Matamec Explorations in negotiations. Unfortunately this junior company’s response to their enquiries has been dismissive. Matamec is hoping to cash in on the much-hyped rare earth elements boom and have identified a deposit they are hoping to develop, but have deferred all discussion of consultation to the Government of Quebec. Wolf Lake and Eagle Village have engaged MiningWatch to assist with communications and education on the issues associated with mining and processing rare earth elements as the company continues to downplay the environmental risks of the project.
• In 1991 the Algonquins of Barrière Lake signed a progressive agreement for management and revenue sharing in their traditional territory, which overlaps considerably with La Verendrye Wildlife Reserve (though a reserve in name, all manner of industrial and recreational uses are permitted). Unfortunately the Quebec and Federal governments have not honoured this agreement and now a mining company has staked claims in the heart of the hunting and fishing area of several Barrière Lake families. Upon learning about an exploration crew operating on the claims of Cartier Resources, community members successfully insisted the workers leave their territory. In a community meeting with MiningWatch, it was clear that many community members are adamantly opposed to mining in their territory. One woman described the need to deal with an exploration company and the potential impacts of mineral development as being like “another heavy pack put on the backs of the people that we now have to carry.”
• Despite having some assurances that their rights will be respected through the James Bay Northern Quebec Agreement, the Cree of Mistissini are calling on Quebec to recognize their call for a moratorium on uranium exploration and mining. While the community has resolutely rejected Strateco Resources’ proposed advanced exploration uranium project, the company continues to work in the area and promote its project to investors while understating community opposition to the project. Meanwhile, the government of Quebec has highlighted the project in recent announcements and documents about its ambitious and problematic “Plan
Canadian mining and exploration in Canada and other lands.Prospector's & Developers Assoc. of Canada/PDAC
Monday, June 6, 2011
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Protests | Silver Mine | Titicaca | Peru Bolivia Border
Protests Silver Mine Titicaca Peru Bolivia Border
For more than two weeks, thousands of people have blocked an international border in Peru — and almost no one in the English-speaking world seems to have noticed.
The story has fallen through the cracks, but here's what's happening:
A proposed mining project on the shores of Lake Titicaca has provoked outrage among Peruvians. Protests are growing in the southeastern part of the country.
About 10,000 people gathered in the city of Puno this week, shouting "Mina no, agro si" (roughly "Mines no, farms yes"). Shops, schools and public transit all shut down.
The protests were sparked by the announcement that a subsidiary of the Canadian mining company Bear Creek would be allowed to build a silver mine near Lake Titicaca.
Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world and the largest lake in South America. The lake was considered sacred by the Incas and is a major tourist draw today.
The protesters say mining would pollute Lake Titicaca, the Desaguadero River and its tributaries. They are demanding the cancellation of all mining and oil concessions and the repeal of the decree that allows mining in the border area.
Bear Creek says the proposed project offers a "low-cost 'pure silver' mine" in a "mineral-rich nation with a favorable investment climate."
The Peruvian government said it would dispatch the military to control the protest and clear the road linking the two countries.
Bolivian businessmen estimate they have lost between $7 million and $16 million because of the blockade. The president of the Chamber of Exporters of Bolivia, Goran Vranicic, told Efe that daily losses total $1 million.
The protest began on May 9 with the closing of the Desaguadero border crossing. The route is still blocked with
For more than two weeks, thousands of people have blocked an international border in Peru — and almost no one in the English-speaking world seems to have noticed.
The story has fallen through the cracks, but here's what's happening:
A proposed mining project on the shores of Lake Titicaca has provoked outrage among Peruvians. Protests are growing in the southeastern part of the country.
About 10,000 people gathered in the city of Puno this week, shouting "Mina no, agro si" (roughly "Mines no, farms yes"). Shops, schools and public transit all shut down.
The protests were sparked by the announcement that a subsidiary of the Canadian mining company Bear Creek would be allowed to build a silver mine near Lake Titicaca.
Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world and the largest lake in South America. The lake was considered sacred by the Incas and is a major tourist draw today.
The protesters say mining would pollute Lake Titicaca, the Desaguadero River and its tributaries. They are demanding the cancellation of all mining and oil concessions and the repeal of the decree that allows mining in the border area.
Bear Creek says the proposed project offers a "low-cost 'pure silver' mine" in a "mineral-rich nation with a favorable investment climate."
The Peruvian government said it would dispatch the military to control the protest and clear the road linking the two countries.
Bolivian businessmen estimate they have lost between $7 million and $16 million because of the blockade. The president of the Chamber of Exporters of Bolivia, Goran Vranicic, told Efe that daily losses total $1 million.
The protest began on May 9 with the closing of the Desaguadero border crossing. The route is still blocked with
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Quick Facts-Apella Resources Inc. - The Vanadium Leader
Quick Facts-Apella Resources Inc. - The Vanadium Leader
The decision of the Quebec court arises out of a staking rush over the prized Lac Dore claims in August, 2007. At that time Apella and another competing party sought to stake the same claims covering the Lac Dore deposit. In January, 2010, the MRNF issued a decision awarding nine claims to Apella and two claims to the competing party while refusing to award the remaining claims to either party. Apella appealed the decision of the MNRF and on February 23, 2011 the Honourable Francois Godbout, J.C.Q. awarded the sought after nine claims to Apella.
Patrick D O’Brien, ICD.D, Apella’s Chief Executive Officer commented “this is precisely the outcome we sought, nothing more, nothing less. Judge Francois Godbout, J.C.Q. made a just and appropriate decision which now allows Apella to expeditiously focus on the development of the Lac Dore. In concluding this lengthy multi-year process Apella has rightfully gained entitlement for its shareholders to the near entirety of the Lac Dore, notably, the world’s second largest vanadium deposit. Apella’s Board and Management wish to extend their sincere gratitude to all of the planners, stakers, geologists, legal advisors, and consultants; and especially our patient and devoted shareholders for standing by and supporting us through this long but achievable undertaking. Our goal has been achieved.”
The decision of the Quebec court arises out of a staking rush over the prized Lac Dore claims in August, 2007. At that time Apella and another competing party sought to stake the same claims covering the Lac Dore deposit. In January, 2010, the MRNF issued a decision awarding nine claims to Apella and two claims to the competing party while refusing to award the remaining claims to either party. Apella appealed the decision of the MNRF and on February 23, 2011 the Honourable Francois Godbout, J.C.Q. awarded the sought after nine claims to Apella.
Patrick D O’Brien, ICD.D, Apella’s Chief Executive Officer commented “this is precisely the outcome we sought, nothing more, nothing less. Judge Francois Godbout, J.C.Q. made a just and appropriate decision which now allows Apella to expeditiously focus on the development of the Lac Dore. In concluding this lengthy multi-year process Apella has rightfully gained entitlement for its shareholders to the near entirety of the Lac Dore, notably, the world’s second largest vanadium deposit. Apella’s Board and Management wish to extend their sincere gratitude to all of the planners, stakers, geologists, legal advisors, and consultants; and especially our patient and devoted shareholders for standing by and supporting us through this long but achievable undertaking. Our goal has been achieved.”
Vanadium to revolutionise green energy
Vanadium to revolutionise green energy | International Mining
as relating to the 2010 Canadian Supreme Court Decision of Quebec Vs. Moses ,effecting vast lands in Northern Quebec, where a modern treaty with the Cree had to be negotiated. Chibougamau,Quebec.
By Marc Davis, www.BNWnews.ca The ‘Holy Grail’ of renewable energy - grid scale power storage - appears to be finally within reach. So is the ability to make electric cars far more practical or user-friendly. This is why the world’s most influential leaders, ranging from US President Obama to the Premier of China and even famed multi-billionaire Warren Buffet, are all heralding vanadium. Governments the world over are directing billions of dollars of grants into vanadium’s fast-emerging role in the electrification of society’s energy supplies. And major corporations are likewise investing in this ‘next big thing’ in the hopes of addressing global warming and society’s dependence on dwindling fossil fuel reserves.By way of explanation, a new generation of advanced green batteries is set to do everything from beefing up electric cars to providing uninterrupted solar and wind power to whole cities. That’s because of a crucial new battery ingredient, vanadium, which can cost-effectively supercharge batteries of any size, even ones so big they have to be housed in substations for large-scale power grid usage. Most significantly, vanadium-enhanced batteries can store prolific amounts of energy, which solves the major drawback of alternative energy. For instance, solar power currently cannot be harnessed for use when the sun doesn’t shine, and at night-time. Likewise, the electricity generated by wind turbines presently goes to waste when the wind stops blowing or when the wind speed is too high or too low.
The only limitation to this breakthrough battery technology is the scarcity of the planet’s economically viable vanadium deposits. So the world’s few primary vanadium producers will be pressed to their very limits in trying to satisfy a looming year-on-year exponential surge in demand for this increasingly invaluable 21st century metal. That’s great news for a tiny handful of mining companies around the world that control these limited mineral resources, according to Bill Radvak, CEO of American Vanadium Corp.
With extensive vanadium rich land holdings in Nevada, American Vanadium is developing what promises to be the only vanadium mine in the US. Not only is it expected to be a low-cost operation but the project’s location is also another major competitive advantage, according to Radvak. That’s because the world’s largest economy has to import the majority of its annual vanadium needs. “The US gets most of its domestic vanadium supplies by way of a byproduct of oil refining. But it’s expensive to extract,” Radvak says. “And the rest comes from such politically problematic jurisdictions as Russia, South Africa and China - all of which account for about 90% of the world’s reserves.”
He adds that North America’s automotive and battery manufacturing industries are very concerned about the possible disruption of long-term supplies when dealing with these overseas vanadium producers. Even President Obama has expressed serious concerns about supplies of strategic metals needed for green batteries.
as relating to the 2010 Canadian Supreme Court Decision of Quebec Vs. Moses ,effecting vast lands in Northern Quebec, where a modern treaty with the Cree had to be negotiated. Chibougamau,Quebec.
By Marc Davis, www.BNWnews.ca The ‘Holy Grail’ of renewable energy - grid scale power storage - appears to be finally within reach. So is the ability to make electric cars far more practical or user-friendly. This is why the world’s most influential leaders, ranging from US President Obama to the Premier of China and even famed multi-billionaire Warren Buffet, are all heralding vanadium. Governments the world over are directing billions of dollars of grants into vanadium’s fast-emerging role in the electrification of society’s energy supplies. And major corporations are likewise investing in this ‘next big thing’ in the hopes of addressing global warming and society’s dependence on dwindling fossil fuel reserves.By way of explanation, a new generation of advanced green batteries is set to do everything from beefing up electric cars to providing uninterrupted solar and wind power to whole cities. That’s because of a crucial new battery ingredient, vanadium, which can cost-effectively supercharge batteries of any size, even ones so big they have to be housed in substations for large-scale power grid usage. Most significantly, vanadium-enhanced batteries can store prolific amounts of energy, which solves the major drawback of alternative energy. For instance, solar power currently cannot be harnessed for use when the sun doesn’t shine, and at night-time. Likewise, the electricity generated by wind turbines presently goes to waste when the wind stops blowing or when the wind speed is too high or too low.
The only limitation to this breakthrough battery technology is the scarcity of the planet’s economically viable vanadium deposits. So the world’s few primary vanadium producers will be pressed to their very limits in trying to satisfy a looming year-on-year exponential surge in demand for this increasingly invaluable 21st century metal. That’s great news for a tiny handful of mining companies around the world that control these limited mineral resources, according to Bill Radvak, CEO of American Vanadium Corp.
With extensive vanadium rich land holdings in Nevada, American Vanadium is developing what promises to be the only vanadium mine in the US. Not only is it expected to be a low-cost operation but the project’s location is also another major competitive advantage, according to Radvak. That’s because the world’s largest economy has to import the majority of its annual vanadium needs. “The US gets most of its domestic vanadium supplies by way of a byproduct of oil refining. But it’s expensive to extract,” Radvak says. “And the rest comes from such politically problematic jurisdictions as Russia, South Africa and China - all of which account for about 90% of the world’s reserves.”
He adds that North America’s automotive and battery manufacturing industries are very concerned about the possible disruption of long-term supplies when dealing with these overseas vanadium producers. Even President Obama has expressed serious concerns about supplies of strategic metals needed for green batteries.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Event Details:TO OBA/ April 20,Wednesday,2011
Event DetailsThe Dodd-Frank Act as it Applies to Canadian Companies
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the "Dodd-Frank Act") was signed
into law on July 21, 2010. It makes important changes to the laws governing the disclosure
requirements applicable to U.S. and foreign reporting issuers. It primarily affects Canadian companies
listed on U.S. exchanges, but other Canadian businesses can be affected by the Dodd-Frank Act as
well. Among the miscellaneous disclosure provisions, there are specific provisions that deal with mine
safety, payments by resource extraction issuers and additional corporate governance and executive
compensation disclosure.Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Time: 8:00 AM
Location: OBA Conference Centre, 200-20 Toronto Street, Toronto
Proposed Amendments to NI 43-101-Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects - What Lawyers and Miners Need to Know
The proposed amendments to National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure For Mineral
Projects (the "NI 43-101") are the first major changes to NI 43-101 proposed since its inception in
2001. The proposed changes are the result of nine years of regulatory experience, broad consultation
through focus groups and a public comment process. The adoption of the proposed amendments
would result in an amended and restated NI 43-101, including Companion Policy to NI 43-101-
Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects and Form 43-101F1 Technical Report. It is anticipated
that the changes will provide cost savings and efficiencies for mining companies without compromising
investor protection.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Time: 8:00 AM
Location: OBA Conference Centre, 200-20 Toronto Street, Toronto
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the "Dodd-Frank Act") was signed
into law on July 21, 2010. It makes important changes to the laws governing the disclosure
requirements applicable to U.S. and foreign reporting issuers. It primarily affects Canadian companies
listed on U.S. exchanges, but other Canadian businesses can be affected by the Dodd-Frank Act as
well. Among the miscellaneous disclosure provisions, there are specific provisions that deal with mine
safety, payments by resource extraction issuers and additional corporate governance and executive
compensation disclosure.Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Time: 8:00 AM
Location: OBA Conference Centre, 200-20 Toronto Street, Toronto
Proposed Amendments to NI 43-101-Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects - What Lawyers and Miners Need to Know
The proposed amendments to National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure For Mineral
Projects (the "NI 43-101") are the first major changes to NI 43-101 proposed since its inception in
2001. The proposed changes are the result of nine years of regulatory experience, broad consultation
through focus groups and a public comment process. The adoption of the proposed amendments
would result in an amended and restated NI 43-101, including Companion Policy to NI 43-101-
Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects and Form 43-101F1 Technical Report. It is anticipated
that the changes will provide cost savings and efficiencies for mining companies without compromising
investor protection.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Time: 8:00 AM
Location: OBA Conference Centre, 200-20 Toronto Street, Toronto
Monday, April 4, 2011
Tax Havens: Bigger Than You Think, Closer to Home
Tax Havens: Bigger Than You Think, Closer to Home Than You Imagine | The Nation
By some estimates, the United States loses $100 billion every year to foreign tax havens, though Shaxson emphasizes that most people still don’t really grasp the enormity of the problem. When they hear the term “tax havens,” many people envision a handful of billionaires sunning themselves on a remote beach somewhere, martinis in hands. The real problem is actually much larger and closer to home.
There now exists an entire parallel network of business conducted by huge corporations that actually mirrors the behavior of international crime organizations. Over half the world trade is now routed through tax havens. “You have this zone where you have big corporations and criminals rubbing shoulders with each other,” says Shaxson. This system has a double effect, he explains. First, it creates incentives to break the law at a corporate level, but it is also “going to provide huge political cover for the criminals themselves when you get the corporations protecting the tax havens and protecting secrecy.”
And this isn’t just happening on sandy beaches, he explains. “The biggest tax havens are big, rich countries, particularly the United States, the United Kingdom, Switzerland—of course, the Cayman Islands is very big too—but also countries like Ireland and Luxembourg, Luxembourg is absolutely huge. Very few people talk about it when they’re thinking about tax havenry.”
By some estimates, the United States loses $100 billion every year to foreign tax havens, though Shaxson emphasizes that most people still don’t really grasp the enormity of the problem. When they hear the term “tax havens,” many people envision a handful of billionaires sunning themselves on a remote beach somewhere, martinis in hands. The real problem is actually much larger and closer to home.
There now exists an entire parallel network of business conducted by huge corporations that actually mirrors the behavior of international crime organizations. Over half the world trade is now routed through tax havens. “You have this zone where you have big corporations and criminals rubbing shoulders with each other,” says Shaxson. This system has a double effect, he explains. First, it creates incentives to break the law at a corporate level, but it is also “going to provide huge political cover for the criminals themselves when you get the corporations protecting the tax havens and protecting secrecy.”
And this isn’t just happening on sandy beaches, he explains. “The biggest tax havens are big, rich countries, particularly the United States, the United Kingdom, Switzerland—of course, the Cayman Islands is very big too—but also countries like Ireland and Luxembourg, Luxembourg is absolutely huge. Very few people talk about it when they’re thinking about tax havenry.”
Friday, March 25, 2011
INNU Takuaikan UASHAT MAK MANI-SIGNS WITH TATA STEEL
Innu Takuaikan UASHAT MAK MANI-Uténam (ITUM) | INNU Takuaikan UASHAT MAK MANI-SIGNS WITH TATA STEEL Uténam MINERALS CANADA LTD.AN AGREEMENT IN PRINCIPLE TO THE SIGNING OF AN AGREEMENT ON THE BENEFITS AND IMPACT ON THE DRAFT OF IRON ORE Direct Shipping
Iron Ore shipping from Schefferville
Innu Takuaikan UASHAT MAK MANI-SIGNS WITH TATA STEEL Uténam MINERALS CANADA LTD. AN AGREEMENT IN PRINCIPLE TO THE SIGNING OF AN AGREEMENT ON THE BENEFITS AND IMPACT ON THE DRAFT OF IRON ORE Direct Shipping
UASHAT, QC, March 25 / CNW Telbec / - Innu Takuaikan Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam (ITUM ") and Tata Steel Minerals Canada Ltd.. ("TSMC" or the "Company") is pleased to announce they have signed an agreement in principle. This agreement in principle (EP) identifies the key steps include a final Agreement for the benefit of Uashaunnuat. The AIP provides for the consent of the proposed TSMC ITUM iron ore direct-shipping ("DSO") located in western Labrador and northeastern Quebec, near Schefferville.
For their consent to the Draft DSO TSMC, the Uashaunnuat benefit from the project by, among other things, training, employment, new business opportunities, creating a fund Aboriginal traditional activities and a financial stake in the project, including an immediate payment of one million dollars. The EP also represents the commitment of the company TSMC to locate the project while ensuring the environment, preservation of sites of spiritual and cultural significance and social and cultural protection of Uashaunnuat.
The EP states that the final Agreement to be signed no later than 15 April 2011 and it is ratified by Uashaunnuat later than May 15, 2011.
The EP was signed in Uashat by Chief Georges-Ernest Gregoire and Mr. Rajesh Sharma, CEO of TSMC.
"ITUM 4000 represents Innu Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam, whose family owners of the territories would be located where the DSO Project" said Chief Georges-Ernest Grégoire "My Council joins me to announce this good news to our community. We have given a mandate to collectively improve the socioeconomic conditions of our community, while remaining true to our values and our cultural identity. Through our participation in this project, we ensure that mineral developers understand that our consent is necessary before the use, development or exploitation of our lands and our natural resources. We also ensure, through these agreements, respect for our political and economic aspirations as well as respect for our collective right to development as an indigenous people occupy this territory. The final agreement will be given to all Innu Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam a ratification vote, more detail measures to mitigate the effects of the DSO project on environmental, social and cultural "concluded Chief Gregory.
"This tentative agreement is the result of intensive and mutually respectful exchanges between representatives and those of TSMC ITUM in recent months," said Rajesh Sharma. "I am confident that we can conclude the final agreement by April 15, 2011.
About Innu Takuaikan Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam
ITUM is the political body representing all the Innu Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam and is charged with upholding and protecting the rights and interests of Uashaunnuat on their traditional territory
Iron Ore shipping from Schefferville
Innu Takuaikan UASHAT MAK MANI-SIGNS WITH TATA STEEL Uténam MINERALS CANADA LTD. AN AGREEMENT IN PRINCIPLE TO THE SIGNING OF AN AGREEMENT ON THE BENEFITS AND IMPACT ON THE DRAFT OF IRON ORE Direct Shipping
UASHAT, QC, March 25 / CNW Telbec / - Innu Takuaikan Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam (ITUM ") and Tata Steel Minerals Canada Ltd.. ("TSMC" or the "Company") is pleased to announce they have signed an agreement in principle. This agreement in principle (EP) identifies the key steps include a final Agreement for the benefit of Uashaunnuat. The AIP provides for the consent of the proposed TSMC ITUM iron ore direct-shipping ("DSO") located in western Labrador and northeastern Quebec, near Schefferville.
For their consent to the Draft DSO TSMC, the Uashaunnuat benefit from the project by, among other things, training, employment, new business opportunities, creating a fund Aboriginal traditional activities and a financial stake in the project, including an immediate payment of one million dollars. The EP also represents the commitment of the company TSMC to locate the project while ensuring the environment, preservation of sites of spiritual and cultural significance and social and cultural protection of Uashaunnuat.
The EP states that the final Agreement to be signed no later than 15 April 2011 and it is ratified by Uashaunnuat later than May 15, 2011.
The EP was signed in Uashat by Chief Georges-Ernest Gregoire and Mr. Rajesh Sharma, CEO of TSMC.
"ITUM 4000 represents Innu Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam, whose family owners of the territories would be located where the DSO Project" said Chief Georges-Ernest Grégoire "My Council joins me to announce this good news to our community. We have given a mandate to collectively improve the socioeconomic conditions of our community, while remaining true to our values and our cultural identity. Through our participation in this project, we ensure that mineral developers understand that our consent is necessary before the use, development or exploitation of our lands and our natural resources. We also ensure, through these agreements, respect for our political and economic aspirations as well as respect for our collective right to development as an indigenous people occupy this territory. The final agreement will be given to all Innu Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam a ratification vote, more detail measures to mitigate the effects of the DSO project on environmental, social and cultural "concluded Chief Gregory.
"This tentative agreement is the result of intensive and mutually respectful exchanges between representatives and those of TSMC ITUM in recent months," said Rajesh Sharma. "I am confident that we can conclude the final agreement by April 15, 2011.
About Innu Takuaikan Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam
ITUM is the political body representing all the Innu Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam and is charged with upholding and protecting the rights and interests of Uashaunnuat on their traditional territory
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Mineral Exploration in the Laurentians: Mayors outraged
Mineral Exploration in the Laurentians: Mayors outraged Hugo Fontaine Energy and Resources
But municipalities can do nothing. The Mining Act takes precedence over municipal law. As part of the reform of the Mining Law, the municipalities did try to push the government to give some control to local governments, but much needed reform of the Canadian Mining Act has been slow and put on the back burner by the Canadian Federal Government.
Pacific Arc Resources is looking for iron and titanium in an area covering the northern municipality of Saint-Hippolyte, eastern territory of Sainte-Adele, and south of the town of Sainte-Marguerite-du-Lac-Masson . The mining company has hired another firm in British Colombia, OnTrack Exploration for the work.
Since 2008, explorers have carried out a geophysical survey by helicopter and gathered samples from the roadside. But to proceed to drilling, OnTrack needed approval of the owners of the lands affected. That's where the news was made known to the mayors of the affected municipalities-whose income is derived from tourism from the beauty of the area.
The mayor of Saint-Hippolyte, Bruno Laroche, was made aware in late February by a counselor, himself informed by a citizen. The weekly journal "The Northern Echo" was informed by two other mayors earlier this month.
"I find it unfortunate when companies start to do work or arrest citizens of a city without notifying the administration of this city," told to La Presse Affaires , Mayor of Sainte-Marguerite, Linda Fortier. It is disrespectful to municipal governments. "
But municipalities can do nothing. The Mining Act takes precedence over municipal law. As part of the reform of the Mining Law, the municipalities did try to push the government to give some control to local governments, but much needed reform of the Canadian Mining Act has been slow and put on the back burner by the Canadian Federal Government.
Pacific Arc Resources is looking for iron and titanium in an area covering the northern municipality of Saint-Hippolyte, eastern territory of Sainte-Adele, and south of the town of Sainte-Marguerite-du-Lac-Masson . The mining company has hired another firm in British Colombia, OnTrack Exploration for the work.
Since 2008, explorers have carried out a geophysical survey by helicopter and gathered samples from the roadside. But to proceed to drilling, OnTrack needed approval of the owners of the lands affected. That's where the news was made known to the mayors of the affected municipalities-whose income is derived from tourism from the beauty of the area.
The mayor of Saint-Hippolyte, Bruno Laroche, was made aware in late February by a counselor, himself informed by a citizen. The weekly journal "The Northern Echo" was informed by two other mayors earlier this month.
"I find it unfortunate when companies start to do work or arrest citizens of a city without notifying the administration of this city," told to La Presse Affaires , Mayor of Sainte-Marguerite, Linda Fortier. It is disrespectful to municipal governments. "
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Congo lifts mining ban
Congo lifts mining ban - CSMonitor.com
Gold miners form a human chain while digging an open pit at the Chudja mine in the Kilomoto concession near the village of Kobu, 100 km (62 miles) from Bunia in northeastern Congo, Feb. 23, 2009. Civil conflict in Congo has been driven for more than a decade by the violent struggle for control over the country's vast natural resources, including gold, diamonds and timber, most of which is exploited using hard manual labour.
Finbarr O'Reilly/Reuters
Gold miners form a human chain while digging an open pit at the Chudja mine in the Kilomoto concession near the village of Kobu, 100 km (62 miles) from Bunia in northeastern Congo, Feb. 23, 2009. Civil conflict in Congo has been driven for more than a decade by the violent struggle for control over the country's vast natural resources, including gold, diamonds and timber, most of which is exploited using hard manual labour.
Finbarr O'Reilly/Reuters
Friday, March 4, 2011
Matawa First Nations appoints Ring of Fire Coordinator
Matawa First Nations appoints Ring of Fire Coordinator
He had barely settled into his chair as the new Matawa First Nations Ring of Fire Coordinator in late January when Marten Falls First Nation threatened to block all mineral exploration in the Ring of Fire until the mining companies signed memorandums of understanding and exploration agreements.
Within days, Cleveland-based mining giant Cliffs Natural Resources released the project description of its Black Thor chromite deposit in the James Bay Lowlands and its ambitious plans to start production by 2015.
But it’s nothing new for the 54-year-old Ferris, who is well-versed in Aboriginal and treaty rights as a former deputy grand chief for Nishnawbe Aski Nation, where he handled the mining and natural resources file.
As a former chief of Constance Lake First Nation, Ferris participated in a few blockades in his home community against mining and forestry companies. The concessations that were gained helped secure Aboriginal roadbuilding jobs and lead to the creation of a band-owned logging company.
Ferris knows what an effective bargaining tool blockades can be.
“Once people know they’ve been had, that’s the only thing that can resort to.”
In the months ahead, he’ll meeting with the three Matawa communities in the Ring of Fire to come up with a development strategy to secure exploration and impact benefit agreements with the mining companies.
Ferris sees his role as assessing what regional economic spinoffs and job creation opportunities are out there in mining, roadbuilding and infrastructure development. There is the potential to harness the Albany and Attawapiskat Rivers as hydroelectric sites to supply power to the mining companies.
“They’re saying there’s a lack of energy, we need to look at all that. Once (the North) opens up, there can be hydro projects, tourism and other things happening other just mining. We need to be prepared.”
Ferris works on behalf of the nine communities in the tribal council, especially those directly impacted by upcoming mine developments: Marten Falls, Neskantaga and Webequie First Nations.
He takes direction straight from the community level, extending up through the chief and council. “They put it on the table and we try to sort out how best to serve the common interest of the nine communities.”
Though headquartered in Thunder Bay, the Ring of Fire coordinator office is expected to grow into a network of community monitors to observe and scrutinize environmental baseline studies as advanced exploration proceeds in the Far North.
“We’re looking to build capacity from the ground up,” said Ferris.
Ferris stresses the importance of securing deals for the long-term. That only comes with “building capacity” and education in understanding the stages of the mining sequence.
Ferris said the pressure is always there to jump at the first job opportunity before any partnerships, labour service and benefit agreements are in place.
“Companies are offering jobs to the First Nations – and we’re appreciative of that – but we start to realize we should have gotten an agreement before we entered into this so we know where we are.
“Once the jobs are on the plate, it’s pretty hard to get your community members to go back and say we’ve got to start this (process) all over again.”
Ferris said it’s important that mining companies follow proper protocols for consulting with First Nations at every stage of the mining sequence. He accuses the Ontario government of “sitting on the sidelines” and not forcing the issue for all parties to come together and hammer out protocols and agreements.
Ferris admits he’s not comfortable with Cliffs’ 2015 start date for production.
“We want to conduct our own due diligence. We want to know what this mine is all about? What’s chromite and how can we be involved? Is ownership good or bad?”
“Our chiefs objected to the project description because we never had any input into it,” said Ferris. “We realize it’s a base case, but we’d like to be involved every step of the way in a true partnership.”
www.matawa.on.ca
He had barely settled into his chair as the new Matawa First Nations Ring of Fire Coordinator in late January when Marten Falls First Nation threatened to block all mineral exploration in the Ring of Fire until the mining companies signed memorandums of understanding and exploration agreements.
Within days, Cleveland-based mining giant Cliffs Natural Resources released the project description of its Black Thor chromite deposit in the James Bay Lowlands and its ambitious plans to start production by 2015.
But it’s nothing new for the 54-year-old Ferris, who is well-versed in Aboriginal and treaty rights as a former deputy grand chief for Nishnawbe Aski Nation, where he handled the mining and natural resources file.
As a former chief of Constance Lake First Nation, Ferris participated in a few blockades in his home community against mining and forestry companies. The concessations that were gained helped secure Aboriginal roadbuilding jobs and lead to the creation of a band-owned logging company.
Ferris knows what an effective bargaining tool blockades can be.
“Once people know they’ve been had, that’s the only thing that can resort to.”
In the months ahead, he’ll meeting with the three Matawa communities in the Ring of Fire to come up with a development strategy to secure exploration and impact benefit agreements with the mining companies.
Ferris sees his role as assessing what regional economic spinoffs and job creation opportunities are out there in mining, roadbuilding and infrastructure development. There is the potential to harness the Albany and Attawapiskat Rivers as hydroelectric sites to supply power to the mining companies.
“They’re saying there’s a lack of energy, we need to look at all that. Once (the North) opens up, there can be hydro projects, tourism and other things happening other just mining. We need to be prepared.”
Ferris works on behalf of the nine communities in the tribal council, especially those directly impacted by upcoming mine developments: Marten Falls, Neskantaga and Webequie First Nations.
He takes direction straight from the community level, extending up through the chief and council. “They put it on the table and we try to sort out how best to serve the common interest of the nine communities.”
Though headquartered in Thunder Bay, the Ring of Fire coordinator office is expected to grow into a network of community monitors to observe and scrutinize environmental baseline studies as advanced exploration proceeds in the Far North.
“We’re looking to build capacity from the ground up,” said Ferris.
Ferris stresses the importance of securing deals for the long-term. That only comes with “building capacity” and education in understanding the stages of the mining sequence.
Ferris said the pressure is always there to jump at the first job opportunity before any partnerships, labour service and benefit agreements are in place.
“Companies are offering jobs to the First Nations – and we’re appreciative of that – but we start to realize we should have gotten an agreement before we entered into this so we know where we are.
“Once the jobs are on the plate, it’s pretty hard to get your community members to go back and say we’ve got to start this (process) all over again.”
Ferris said it’s important that mining companies follow proper protocols for consulting with First Nations at every stage of the mining sequence. He accuses the Ontario government of “sitting on the sidelines” and not forcing the issue for all parties to come together and hammer out protocols and agreements.
Ferris admits he’s not comfortable with Cliffs’ 2015 start date for production.
“We want to conduct our own due diligence. We want to know what this mine is all about? What’s chromite and how can we be involved? Is ownership good or bad?”
“Our chiefs objected to the project description because we never had any input into it,” said Ferris. “We realize it’s a base case, but we’d like to be involved every step of the way in a true partnership.”
www.matawa.on.ca
Mining: Ring of Fire: Aboriginal Marten Falls want their share of the pie | Ontario | Radio-Canada.ca
Mining: Ring of Fire: Aboriginal Marten Falls want their share of the pie Ontario Radio-Canada.ca
The KWG Mining is ready to integrate Aboriginal people throughout the stages of its chromite mine project. She has recently proposed several leaders to integrate its management team. She is still awaiting a response.
The Ring of Fire
It covers a territory of more than 5000 km2. It is 500 kilometers north of Thunder Bay. The focus of this circle is the McFauld Lake, located halfway between Attawapiskat on the west coast of James Bay and Webequie First Nation, located at the height of Greenstone. The mineral was found in the copper, nickel, but also what appears to be the largest deposits of chromite world, a metal used to produce stainless steel.
The KWG Mining is ready to integrate Aboriginal people throughout the stages of its chromite mine project. She has recently proposed several leaders to integrate its management team. She is still awaiting a response.
The Ring of Fire
It covers a territory of more than 5000 km2. It is 500 kilometers north of Thunder Bay. The focus of this circle is the McFauld Lake, located halfway between Attawapiskat on the west coast of James Bay and Webequie First Nation, located at the height of Greenstone. The mineral was found in the copper, nickel, but also what appears to be the largest deposits of chromite world, a metal used to produce stainless steel.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
CIDA Subsidizes Mining’s NGO's
CIDA Subsidizes Mining’s Social Responsibility Projects | MiningWatch
Open the PDF January 14th letter from Bev Oda to Mining Watch. It appears to me that Ms. Oda is an honest person- maybe a bit too honest,...maybe?
Open the PDF January 14th letter from Bev Oda to Mining Watch. It appears to me that Ms. Oda is an honest person- maybe a bit too honest,...maybe?
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