Government authorizations issued to Royal Nickel: AN IMPORTANT DAY FOR MINERAL DEVELOPMENT IN QUÉBEC ACCORDING TO THE QUÉBEC MINING ASSOCIATION
25/06/2015
Québec City, June 25, 2015 – The Québec Mining Association (QMA) is pleased to note that Royal Nickel Corporation has been issued with a certificate of authorization by the Québec government to pursue the development of its Dumont project. The project will broaden the mining portfolio in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region and ensure that Québec as a whole continues to prosper thanks to the mining industry.
"By authorizing the continuation of the Dumont project, the government recognizes the effort made by Royal Nickel from the outset to develop its project in partnership with local communities. Its proactive approach and respect for communities have been rewarded," states Josée Méthot, the QMA's president and CEO.
Thanks to the Dumont project, the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region will see more diversification in its economy, since nickel was not previously mined in the region and will limit the impact of the slowdown in other sectors. "The QMA has often made the government aware of the importance of promoting mining development in Québec. Diversification in the mineral sector is one way to ensure that Québec retains its place as a leader in the worldwide mining community. Royal Nickel is helping to contribute to this objective and we, the Association, are proud of what it has achieved," Ms. Méthot continues.
According to the QMA, Québec had a clear interest in allowing the Dumont project to go ahead:
- Planned life of 33 years;
- Investments totalling over $3 billion;
- Operating expenditure assessed at almost $11 billion, one-third spent in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region;
- Creation of 1,200 jobs during the mine construction phase;
- Creation of 500 jobs on average during the extraction phase.
"Dumont will be one of Canada's largest base metal mines and the company has made a clear commitment, when it begins operations, to respect the environment and the local population. Mining companies have long understood the importance of pursuing their activities in compliance with the principle of sustainable development, and Royal Nickel is no exception to this rule," concludes Josée Méthot.
About the Québec Mining Association
The Québec Mining Association (QMA) was founded in 1936 and speaks proactively for mining companies involved in extraction and processing, mining contractors and junior mining companies, along with suppliers, institutions, non-profit organizations and other mining sector partners. It is proud of the 45,000 high-quality jobs and $3.2 billion in investment generated by Québec’s mining industry over the last year. The QMA’s mission is to promote, support and play a role in the development of a responsible, committed and innovative mining industry in Québec.