#RingOfFire (#RoF) News – January 31, 2020

• “Conservatives Say Northern Ontario “Abandoned by Throne Speech” ” (netnewsledger.com)
• “Northern Ont. snubbed in throne speech: Tories” (Sudbury Star)
• Text, Speech from the Throne, 5 Dec 2019

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• “Batchewana First Nation voices opposition to proposed Noront ferrochrome smelter” (Northern Ontario Business)
• “City of Sault Ste. Marie will wait for an environmental study before deciding whether or not to back Noront’s ferrochrome smelter in Sault Ste. Marie. Batchewana First Nation, in a release dated Dec. 20, announced its opposition to the proposed site citing concerns for the well-being of area residents and the environment …” (Sault Star)
• “Noront Resources President and CEO Responds to Opposition to Ferrochrome Smelter in SSM” (Wawa-news.com)
• “Sault musician moved by retired steelworkers to pen ‘protest’ song” (SooToday.com)
• “Noront CEO Alan Coutts is cautiously optimistic about his company’s claims in the so-called ring of fire, saying its first mine could be operational as early as five years from now. Environmental assessments are currently underway on two road projects that would open up the valuable mineral claims to development …” (tbnewswatch.com)

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• “… (writer and mining watchdog) Joan (Kuyek) expressed extreme dismay at the money spent on the Ring of Fire. She said, “The federal and provincial governments have sunk over $57 million into a pipe-dream that isn’t feasible. The Ring of Fire is not likely to ever happen. However, people are getting rich over it.” As of 2016, the federal government spent $17 million and the Ontario government spent $40 million. “Money that could have gone to homes, healthcare, and other priorities,” declared Joan. Joan stated, “If a big mining company such as Glencore thought the Ring of Fire was viable, they would invest immediately. The CEO of Noront Resources makes over $600 thousand per year and for what?” Noront Resources is a junior mining company without sufficient financial resources …” (saultonline.com)

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• “Two senior leaders from Webequie First Nation said they are not opposed to development in the Ring of Fire but environmental stewardship and the well-being of their community very much remain their priorities …” (Northern Ontario Business)
• “Chiefs from two economically depressed communities near the Ring of Fire told Queen’s Park politicians they want to be “equitable partners” to share in the benefits of Far North development …” (Northern Ontario Business)

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• “… As for the Ring of Fire, (Ontario mines minister Greg) Rickford said there would be “no more regional brainwork” in the “not too distant future.” He added the province would be working with the communities in the region differently.  “We spent more than $20 million and sadly the Indigenous communities have not benefited from this and the leaders of those communities will tell you.”  The minister explained the government has done Indigenous communities and mining companies a “disservice” by being caught up in bureaucratic systems which have not benefited those proximal to the Ring of Fire.  When it comes to the region, Rickford said he would argue the larger economic prospect is tied to the infrastructure that supports it, meaning the government would be taking “an entirely different approach” and “building a corridor to prosperity so the communities in that region … will have roads not just to the North to any developments that occur but also to the South.  “The government of Ontario does not build mines. It’s the companies that build mines. Our job is to support infrastructure, and we are very close to developing full partnerships with the Indigenous communities.” …” (northernnews.ca)

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• “Ring of Fire’s chromite cache remains stranded as Canada, U.S. mull ‘strategic mineral security’ plan” (The Post Millennial)
• “Column: Stalled Ring of Fire worth more than $117 billion” (Sudbury Star)
• “Ontario’s Ring of Fire: Many Hurdles Yet to Be Overcome” (The Epoch Times)

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• “… Bakhtiar Moazzami, a professor of economics and econometrics at Lakehead University … “On the positive side, development of the Ring of Fire, which is expected to happen in the next five to 10 years, will generate a significant number of jobs and will continue to be a source of stimulation to Northern Ontario’s economy. Indigenous residents of the area will be able to participate in the development and initial phase of the operation, which will consist of open-pit operations; however, to receive long-term benefits, we need to enable our workforce to perform tasks that require a higher level of expertise and education.”  Moazzami says many tradespeople in Northern Ontario are reaching the age of retirement, which means workers at the Ring of Fire will need to be imported from elsewhere. While Indigenous communities are poised to benefit, Moazzami says without more education, they will not reap the benefits for long.  “The Ring of Fire will increase demand for skills well above the regional supply as most tradespeople are close to retirement in northern regions. Thus, many migrant workers will be employed at the site,” he says.  “The northern Indigenous population will be the primary beneficiary of jobs in the initial stages of development. However, given the relatively low levels of educational achievement among the northern Indigenous workforce, the prospect of benefiting from later stages of development is slim.” …” (Sudbury Star)

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• “Court sides with environmental groups in ongoing De Beers lawsuit … “Our client’s case against De Beers presents a critical opportunity to set a precedent for how the province regulates mines in Ontario’s so-called ‘Ring of Fire.’ We look forward to proceeding with this prosecution.” …” (Timmins Daily Press)

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• “Noront Resources Announces Issuance of Interest Shares” (Noront news release)
• “Noront Announces Debt Extension and Royalty Sale and Provides Additional Updates” (Noront news release)
• “KWG to Issue Ferrochrome Warrants” (KWG news release)
• “Resource Capital Fund V L.P. Announces Amendments to Convertible Loan with Noront Resources Ltd.” (Resource Capital Fund news release)

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Filed under: Uncategorized, Alan Coutts, Bakhtiar Moazzami, Batchewana, Eabametoong, Greg Rickford, Joan Kuyek, KWG Resources, Noront Resources, Sault Ste. Marie, Webequie

#RingOfFire (#RoF) News – July 17, 2015

• Remember the “mining claims all the way up to the RoF” court case? “KWG Updates Appeals Status — With respect to the appeal of the decision of the Divisional Court of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice released July 30, 2014, counsel for the parties have agreed with the Registrar of the Court of Appeal for Ontario to conduct the hearing previously scheduled for October 20th, 2015 on November 25th, 2015 instead ….”
• “Noront Resources Announces Issuance of Interest Shares and Establishment Fee Shares — Noront Resources Ltd. announces that payment of interest in the amount of $372,090, for the second quarter of 2015 pursuant to a loan agreement entered into between Noront and Resource Capital Funds V L.P. dated February 26, 2013, has been satisfied by delivery of 811,007 common shares of the Company at an effective price of $0.4588 per Interest Share. The Interest Shares were delivered on July 10, 2015 subject to a four month hold period, expiring on November 11, 2015 ….”
• ”Roads, the best way to find new deposits — One of the first priorities is road transportation. Last March at the PDAC mining convention, the federal and provincial governments jointly announced roughly $800,000 in funding for four of the five isolated First Nations – Webequie, Nibinamik, Neskantaga and Eabametoong – to begin consultations on an east-west road that will connect their communities and the Ring of Fire camp to the provincial highway system. A small baby step of progress ….”
• Speaking of roads and funding for them, here’s what the province says this …. “Ontario Takes Action to Secure Infrastructure Funding …. Ontario also nominated the Ring of Fire under the National Infrastructure Component and continues to call on the federal government to match the province’s commitment to invest up to $1 billion in the region. This project represents an unprecedented opportunity to unlock the economic development potential of northern Ontario and realize tremendous public benefits for Aboriginal communities, Ontario and Canada as a whole ….”
• …. while Canada says this “The federal government has approved the vast majority of Ontario’s initial infrastructure requests as it fires back over provincial complaints that the Conservatives are playing politics with the billions set aside for projects like roads, sewers and transit. Federal Infrastructure Minister Denis Lebel is revealing for the first time how many Ontario projects have been approved. In a statement to The Globe and Mail, Mr. Lebel says that 77 of the 106 projects the province initially submitted for funding under the New Building Canada Fund have either been announced or approved by the government …. The 106 projects are on an initial list previously submitted by Ontario. The province sent a second list to Ottawa on Thursday that seeks funding for major projects including infrastructure to encourage mining in northern Ontario’s Ring of Fire region, as well as GO Transit improvements in Toronto and the surrounding region ….”
• “Minister Rickford Highlights Importance of Mining at Greenstone Mineral Exploration Forum — The Honourable Greg Rickford, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario, (Tuesday) delivered keynote remarks at the Greenstone Mineral Exploration Forum. The Minister highlighted the Government of Canada’s commitment to the mining industry, as well as the need for engagement and partnerships in the development of mining projects in and around the Ring of Fire in Northern Ontario ….”
• Meanwhile, one of the other candidates in Rickford’s riding mentions the RoF as well ”Hampton wants better relationship between feds and First Nations hoping for change — The Harper Conservatives are failing to work with Treaty 3 and Nishnawbe Aski Nation First Nations, causing an economic delay in creating good jobs and a better economy in Northwestern Ontario, according to Howard Hampton, federal NDP candidate in the Kenora riding.  “The Harper Conservatives’ refusal to cooperate with First Nations is delaying vital development projects for the Northwest,” said Hampton. “The Ring of Fire, four-laning the Trans-Canada from Manitoba to Kenora, and building a hydro transmission line to the Far North could all be a reality if the Conservatives would stop ignoring the First Nations in the region.” …. “The Ring of Fire holds billions of dollars in mineral deposits, would create thousands of good jobs and a better economy for everyone in the region,” said Hampton. “The Conservatives refusal to work in partnership with First Nations like Neskantaga is unbelievable.” ….”

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Filed under: Uncategorized, Denis Lebel, Eabametoong, Greg Rickford, Howard Hampton, KWG, National Infrastructure Component, Neskantaga, Nibinamik, Noront, PDAC, Webequie

Ring of Fire News – 5 Dec 11

• Noront Resources:  we have a preferred route for year-round access to our proposed Eagle’s Nest mining site.  “…. Paul Semple, chief operating officer with Noront, said …. they have looked at 12 different scenarios that included using roads, trains and hovercrafts, but have since narrowed down the choices. While an environmental review still needs to be completed, he said having a route that will allow them year round access will be incredibly beneficial.  “When we looked at our studies we found a preferred East to West route which comes in from Pickle Lake and comes onto an all season road up to Webequie,” Semple said.  “We follow an existing winter road corridor so we minimize our environmental disturbance.  It’s pretty important to have these roads otherwise you would have a fleet of trucks running two months out of the year and then they would sit idle for the next 10.” ….”  Source
• Meanwhile, Noront re-announces it has its environmental assessment documents for the Eagle’s Nest project available for public scrutiny.  “Noront Resources Ltd. has released the Notice of Commencement of Terms of Reference.  Noront is continuing with its work for the Environmental Assessment for the Eagle’s Nest Mine Project in northwest Ontario.  Since 2009, Environmental Baseline studies have been conducted around the mineral deposit, at infrastructure sites, and along the access corridor. Noront has also been advancing the engineering of the mine and infrastructure since 2009, incorporating means to protect the environment and support sustainable development.  Draft Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Eagle’s Nest Mine project have been prepared by Noront in compliance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment (MOE) requirements.  The draft TOR is available for review by the public, and copies can be down loaded at www.norontresources.com or www.eaglesnestmine.com  ….”   Source  (Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency documents also available here, here and here)
• Noront selling shared to raise ~$4M for Ring of Fire work.  “Noront Resources Ltd. is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with Dundee Securities Ltd., on behalf of a syndicate including Raymond James Ltd. under which the Agents have agreed to offer for sale, on a best efforts private placement basis, flow-through common shares (the “Flow-Through Shares”) at a price of $0.86 per Flow-Through Share for gross proceeds of approximately $3,000,000.  In addition, Noront has granted the Agents an over-allotment option (the “Option”) to sell up to an additional $1,000,000 of the Flow-Through Shares sold pursuant to the Offering, at $0.86 per Flow-Through Share, exercisable at any time prior to 48 hours before the Closing Date of the Offering …. The gross proceeds from the sale of the Flow-Through Shares will be used for Canadian Exploration Expenses (“CEE”), with the Company to use best efforts to qualify such CEE as “flow-through mining expenditures”, to fund ongoing exploration activities on the Company’s McFauld’s Lake project ….”  Source
• Merry Christmas from Noront to First Nation kids!  “A Toronto-based mining company wants to ensure that 350 children in two remote First Nations near the Ring of Fire mining district have presents for Christmas.  Noront Resources Ltd. in co-operation with the North-South Partnership for Children, is running its third annual Ring of Fire Christmas Fund.  In the past two years the company has raised over $40,000 and has ensured that every child under age 12, both on- and off-reserve in Marten Falls and Webequie has received a wrapped gift ….”  Source – more (company news release) – more (company brochure)
• What Premier Dalton McGuinty had to say about the prospect of Cliffs Natural Resources shipping some less-than-fully-processed chromite straight to China, instead of having it all refined in Ontario:  “…. we’re going to do everything we can together to maximize the benefits for the people of Ontario.  I know where my friend (Ontario NDP leader Andrea Horwath, who asked the question in the Legislature) wants to go on this, and I can’t agree with her in that regard. She would suggest that we put up a wall around our resources sector here in Ontario. The fact of the matter is, we receive raw minerals from other parts of the world. We bring them into our province, we process them here, and we create good jobs here. So that’s not the kind of fight I want to get into with the international community.  Having said that, I again say to my honourable colleague, let us see if we can find a way, all of us together, working with northerners in particular, to ensure that we maximize the benefits of the development of the Ring of Fire for the benefit of all Ontarians ….”  Source (PDF of question & answer exchange from 30 Nov 11 Hansard) – more – more
• Message from First Nation governance conference in Thunder Bay:  Unity is the key.  “…. “We can’t approach these things fractured,” said Elijah Harper, a former member of both provincial and federal parliament in northern Manitoba.  Harper was one of several speakers at the two-day First Nations Strategy for the Ring of Fire forum hosted by the National Centre for First Nations Governance at the Victoria Inn Tuesday.  “There’s a confusion of how to work together; that’s the problem – where to begin,” said Harper. “People are at different stages of speaking with the mining companies. “  Not only does there need to be collaboration on how to move forward with mining development, but also on how to deal with Aboriginal and treaty rights.  Harper said people need to be properly advised so they can make informed decisions in respect to development; so they know what impacts it may have on their traditional territory.  “They have to be addressed with the mining companies and also to stress that the federal and provincial government have a responsibility to ensure consultation happens,” he said.  Harper believes it is possible for the communities to work together as they have a common vision – they want to benefit from the Ring of Fire activity.  “That’s the ultimate goal – to achieve a good future for the First Nations and for generations to come,” he said.  The aim of the conference was to show First Nations what it takes to organize a legal and political strategy to get the most out of negotiations with government and industry.  The forum was also to educate Aboriginal people about their rights and the legal obligations of the federal and provincial governments, specifically regarding resource use and the Ring of Fire ….”  Source
• Op-ed attributed to Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Stan Beardy on why he’s against the Far North Act:  First Nations don’t have the final say.  “…. The core elements of every land use plan are subject to a provincial veto which is in complete denial of a standard that is being recognized internationally, that is, the right for First Nations to provide free, prior and informed consent. Canada and Ontario still have yet to catch up to this standard ….”  Source
• The Wasaya Group is teaming up with other businesses to help service the Ring of Fire.  “…. This fall, the Thunder Bay-based Native venture corporation announced joint ventures with a major Northern contractor and a Sioux Lookout trucking company.  Wasaya has struck business partnerships with Dowland Contracting of Inuvik, N.W.T. and Morgan Transfer of Sioux Lookout.  Dowland business development director Martin Landry said the company has delivered more than $1 billion in mine and power line developments as well as hospital and school projects in Canada and Alaska since its inception 30 years ago.  The new venture, Wasaya Dowland Contracting, will provide construction expertise to Wasaya with future training and apprenticeship programs stemming from the relationship.  “Wasaya Dowland Contracting will undertake large construction initiatives through the industrial, commercial and institutional sectors,” said Landry. “The company will be available to serve the Ring of Fire should they require our industrial capacity” ….” Source

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More open source information (excerpts from information monitored 1 Nov-5 Dec 11 (PDF) here.  All information shared here in accordance with the Fair Dealing provisions (§29) of the Copyright Act.  We’re not responsible for the accuracy of the source material, and inclusion of material doesn’t mean endorsement.

Filed under: Uncategorized, Canadian Exploration Expenses, CEE, Cliffs Natural Resources, Dalton McGuinty, Dowland Contracting, Dundee Securities, Eagle's Nest, Elijah Harper, Far North Act, flow-through mining expenditures, flow-through shares, Marten Falls, McFaulds Lake, Nishnawbe Aski Nation, Noront Resources, North-South Partnership for Children, Paul Semple, Pickle Lake, Raymond James Ltd., Ring of Fire, Ring of Fire Christmas Fund, Ring of fire news, shipping chromite to China, Stan Beardy, Wasaya Dowland Contracting, Wasaya Group, Webequie, www.eaglesnestmine.com, www.norontresources.com

Ring of Fire First Nation: We’ll Decide, Thanks

This from TBNewswatch.com:

A First Nation community near the Ring of Fire wants the public to know that it is autonomous.  Webequie First Nation, part of Matawa First Nations Management Tribal Council, released a community position paper and a consultation and accommodation protocol Wednesday morning. Chief Cornelius Wabbase said in light of recent media attention with Matawa’s withdrawal of support for Ring of Fire development, his community needs to reaffirm that it makes its own decisions when it comes to Webequie First Nation.  “The community has to assert themselves so that they can be recognized as a community up there that has the decision making power,” Wabasse said.  “We have to be known that we’re there…we have our own community processes that have to be taken into account.”  People in Webequie are concerned with a lack of consultation from government, industry and third party organizations like Matawa.  Wabasse said first and foremost, any consultation done with regard to Webequie traditional territory must be done with Webequie.  “The community has a concern about their (Matawa’s) approach and I’m standing by my community,” Wabasse said. “They’re not being properly consulted at the community level.”  Wabasse said Webequie does share environmental concerns with Matawa, which filed an application for a judicial review over the federal government’s decision to put a faster comprehensive environmental assessment for a proposed chromite project rather than a joint-panel assessment.   Wabasse said Webequie is still working with Matawa and other regional partners ….

More in a news release from Webequie First Nation here (or here in PDF if other link doesn’t work).

Filed under: Uncategorized, Community Position Paper, Consultation and Accommodation Protocol, Cornelius Wabasse, Matawa, Michael Fox, Ring of Fire, Ring of fire news, Ring of Fire Senior Director, Webequie, Webequie Ring of Fire team

Next Up for EA: Noront’s Eagle’s Nest Project

This from the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency:

Under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act(the Act), the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (the Agency) is responsible for exercising the powers and performing the duties and functions of the responsible authority for certain projects subject to the comprehensive study requirements of the Act.

Based on information it has received, the Agency has determined that the project is described in the comprehensive study list and that an environmental assessment of the project is required. As a result, the Agency commenced a comprehensive study on November 1, 2011.

The proposed project consists of constructing, operating and eventually decommissioning an underground nickel-copper-platinum multi-metal mine at a mining rate of approximately 2,960 tonnes per day which represents an anticipated mine life of approximately 11 years. The proposal also includes an underground concentrate processing facility, an all-season access road from Pickle Lake to Webequie Junction, concentrate pipeline from Webequie Junction to the mine site and ancillary mine infrastructure. The project mine site is located approximately 540 km north of the City of Thunder Bay, Ontario and 240 km west of James Bay in an area known as the “Ring of Fire”

(….)

As per the Cabinet Directive on Improving the Performance of the Regulatory System for Major Resource Projects, this environmental assessment has been identified as a major natural resource project. For additional information refer to the Major Projects Management Office’s Tracker, designed to track and monitor the progress of major resource projects through the federal regulatory system ….

More here (list o’ documents), here (project main page), here (the company’s project page) and here (Chronicle-Journal)

Filed under: Uncategorized, CEAA, comprehensive study, comprehensive study list, Eagle's Nest, Eagle's Nest Project, McFaulds Lake, Noront Resources, Pickle Lake, Ring of Fire, Ring of fire news, Webequie

Ring of Fire News – 25 Oct 11

• RECAP – Federal environmental assessment process under way for Cliffs Natural Resources project.  “The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (the Agency) is starting a comprehensive study type of environmental assessment for the proposed Cliffs Chromite Project located in northern Ontario. The Agency invites the public to comment on the project and the conduct of the comprehensive study.  The Agency has prepared the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) Guidelines that identify potential environmental effects to be addressed and information that needs to be included in the proponent’s EIS. Public comments on the draft EIS Guidelines are invited and will be reviewed and considered before the document is finalized and issued to the proponent.  The draft EIS Guidelines and more information on this project are available on the Agency’s website at http://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca (Registry reference number 11-03-63927). The document is available in paper copy by request as well.  All comments received by November 16, 2011 will be considered.  The Agency is also making available $40,000 under its Participant Funding Program to assist groups and individuals to participate in the federal environmental assessment of this project. Funding applications received by November 16, 2011 will be considered.  This is the first of several public comment periods that will occur during the environmental assessment of the project ….”    CEAA news release – CEAA project page – CEAA list of project documents – Sudbury Star (1) – Sudbury Star (2) – Northern Ontario Business
• RECAP – Matawa Chiefs:  No joint environmental assessment = no Ring of Fire development.  “Matawa Chiefs withdrew their support for development in the Ring of Fire (ROF) (21 Oct 11).  The Chiefs and the 8,000 people they represent are calling on Premier McGuinty and Prime Minister Harper to intervene in the Environmental Assessment (EA) process.  “We will be forced to resort to alternative measures if Canada and Ontario continue to ignore the First Nations that are being impacted by Ring of Fire developments,” said Chief Roger Wesley of Constance Lake First Nation.  Matawa Chiefs are outraged that the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (CEAA) is proceeding with a Comprehensive Study EA. The Chiefs and their people have been calling for a Joint Review Panel EA for five months but the government is still not listening. Both the provincial and the federal governments are failing in their constitutional duty to consult and accommodate First Nations. According to the Chiefs, the government is telling them what they plan to do, but it is not consulting or accommodating them about how they want to be involved. The Chiefs maintain that the manner in which the government is proceeding with development in Northern Ontario is going to slowly destroy their traditional way of life, extinguish their treaty rights and destroy their homelands and their children’s future ….”  Matawa news release (PDF) – alternate news release download site (PDF) – Sudbury Star – Thunder Bay Chronicle-Journal (PDF) – Northern Ontario Business – tbnewswatch.com – Wawatay News
• Cliffs on Matawa Chiefs’ announcement:  disappointed, but willing to keep working with First Nations.   “Cliffs Natural Resources says it’s committed to “working hand-in-hand” with nine remote First Nations that could benefit from the company’s proposed chromite mine in the Ring of Fire.  But the company said it’s disappointed over last week’s all-or-nothing demand by Matawa First Nations for a higher level environmental review into the mine proposal.  “It’s unfortunate that the focus is over the panel (review) versus comprehensive approaches,” Cliffs said in a statement.  “The comprehensive review process provides a clear and thorough path, as well as the flexibility to address the specific concerns of impacted communities,” the statement said ….”  Thunder Bay Chronicle-Journal
• Ontario Ring of Fire Co-ordinator on Matawa Chiefs’ announcement:  we’re committed to keeping the dialogue going.  “…. On (20 Oct 11), the Matawa Chiefs met with Christine Kaszycki, an assistant deputy minister with the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines, and the ministry’s Ring of Fire co-ordinator.  Kaszycki said she met with the Matawa chiefs (20 Oct 11), but (the 22 Oct 11) scheduled meeting did not go ahead.  “The purpose … was to engage in a more comprehensive discussion concerning the Environmental Assessment process — share some information and determining what the First Nation concerns are. We did have a discussion on that.  “The consultation has opened the issue … They want to be a more integral part of the process going forward and it’s not just with respect to the environmental assessment, but all areas.”  Kaszycki said there will be more meetings with the chiefs, but none are scheduled at this time.  “We are committed to having ongoing dialogue with the (First Nation) communities,” she said. “I think there is a lot of room to move forward in a very satisfactory way. We are committed to keeping the dialogue going.”  ….”  Sudbury Star
• Environmental groups are also underwhelmed about no joint assessment of Cliffs project.   “…. The Matawa and Mushkegowuk First Nations representing 13 individual communities as well as MiningWatch Canada, Ecojustice, Wildlands League, and the Wildlife Conservation Society have all recommended that the project be evaluated through a joint federal-provincial review panel. Friday’s announcement indicated that this will not be the case and that the project will be reviewed through the less rigorous – and less participatory – comprehensive study process.  Cliffs’ project is the most advanced of several projects being developed in the much-touted “Ring of Fire” ….”
  If approved, Cliffs’ project would open the entire region and establish the infrastructure for future developments. Located on the border between the Hudson Bay Lowlands and the boreal forest of the Canadian Shield, the “Ring of Fire” is ecologically sensitive and a valued part of the traditional territories of the Matawa and Mushkegowuk First Nations who have travelled, hunted, and fished throughout the area for millennia. The First Nations expect the federal and provincial governments to honour their obligations to share both the decision making process and any benefits that may come from development in the area.  The decision to undertake a so-called “comprehensive study” instead of a review panel fell to Environment Minister Peter Kent. The decision threatens already-strained relationships with affected First Nations. Comments Ramsey Hart of MiningWatch, “It is infuriating that our government is not meeting its obligations under the constitution, under our Treaties, and under international norms like the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.” Hart also doubts that the decision will actually speed up development ….”  Mining Watch Canada news release – CBC Thunder Bay
• Cabinet Shuffle (1)  New Ministers of Northern Development and Mines (Rick Bartolucci of Sudbury) and Minister of Natural Resources (Michael Gravelle of Thunder Bay).   Government of Ontario news release – Chronicle-Journal – Northern Ontario Business
  
• Cabinet Shuffle (2)  Editorial:  will new Northern Development Minister = preference for Sudbury smelter site?   “…. Sudbury’s Rick Bartolucci, one less thing to look after in Gravelle’s place. It also suggests Premier Dalton McGuinty believes that mining needs undivided attention as exploration increases across the Far North. Bartolucci is also cabinet chair, adding to his stature …. Bartolucci now gets to make his mark directly on a resurgent mining sector. This is a challenge, to say the least. Relations between the mining industry and First Nations near exploration sites are often troubled over consultation and territorial claims on Crown land …. Bartolucci’s appointment also suggests that Cliffs Natural Resources, the biggest player in the huge Ring of Fire minerals deposit, may choose Sudbury for its ferrochrome processing facility. Bartolucci’s hometown is already Cliffs’ “test case” location. With considerable mining infrastructure already in place, the appointment of its MPP as Mines Minister signals that Sudbury may have a lock on the processor.  We still think that Thunder Bay’s status as a seaway port gives it a shipping advantage as Cliffs considers its global marketing strategy for the key ingredient in stainless steel.  Gravelle caught grief for insisting he couldn’t advocate for his riding in the Cliffs matter because he had to respect the entire region in his job as Northern Development Minister. Does Bartolucci think the same way? If so, Thunder Bay and Greenstone might still have a chance at the processor. If Bartolucci goes to bat for Sudbury, the minister will hold all the cards.”  Thunder Bay Chronicle-Journal
• Cabinet Shuffle (3)  If Bartolucci is quoted correctly, he may continue pushing for Sudbury as the smelter site.  “…. (Bartolucci) said he expects MPPs in northwestern ridings “to be advocating and helping their communities to try to secure the processing plant up there. I think that’s fair game.”  He said “the way the (Sudbury) mayor and the community have engaged me in this process, I can still act as the MPP, and will.”  The priority will be to ensure that Cliffs Resources builds its processing plant “right here, in Northern Ontario.” ….”  Sudbury Star
• Meanwhile, Sudbury officials still waiting to hear from road trip to Cleveland to twist arms to get chromite smelter built near Capreol.  “Greater Sudbury officials are still awaiting word on whether an American company will build a smelter in the area to process chromite mined in the Ring of Fire.  However, they’ve already identified a site for the facility.  It’s the site of the old Moose Mountain iron mine, north of Capreol.  The mine shut down in the 1970s.  Ward 7 city councillor Dave Kilgour said that history makes it a good spot for the smelter.  “It’s a brownfield already,” he noted.  “You’re not going into fresh green virgin forest and trying to do something. It’s already been used as a mine site for a considerable length of time, so I think some of the permits… might be easier to get.”  Kilgour said he thinks hydro rates will be the key factor in whether the smelter is built in Sudbury.  The company with all the answers, Cliffs Natural Resources, has not said when it will make a decision ….”  CBC Sudbury
• Thunder Bay also hitting the road to lobby for chromite smelter.  “Mayor Keith Hobbs remains optimistic he can help convince Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. to locate a ferrochrome processing plant in Thunder Bay.  Hobbs will venture next month to company headquarters in Cleveland, along with a Northwestern Ontario contingent, in a last-ditch effort to convince Cliffs officials to choose Thunder Bay over Sudbury.  A working group readying for the delegation is in place, and includes officials from the city, Community Economic Development Corporation, the port authority, Fort William First Nation and Thunder Bay Hydro.  Hobbs said the traveling group will be pared down before the November departure, but will be fully prepared to defend Thunder Bay’s claim to the plant, needed to process the estimated $30-billion Ring of Fire chromite deposit ….”  tbnewswatch.com
• Timmins wants the smelter, too.  “…. Timmins Mayor Tom Laughren said he has also been meeting with officials from Cliffs Natural Resources, the company looking at building a smelting facility for its proposed northwestern Ontario mine.  “Do we think we’re part of the running? Absolutely,” said Laughren. “Would I be as confident as Sudbury, probably not. But again, I think there’s many places in northern Ontario that this could happen in.”  Laughren said what’s most important is that the smelter is built somewhere in northern Ontario.  He said northern leaders should not fight with each other, but rather lobby the province to offer lower hydro rates than Quebec and Manitoba.”  CBC Sudbury
• Timmins Mayor also renews call for lower electricity rates.  “…. Laughren said he is hopeful that even with a Liberal government in Queen’s Park, the minority situation may be able to convince the Liberals to bring in an electrical energy rate that would allow resource-based businesses to thrive …. Laughren said the city and the Timmins Economic Development Corporation (TEDC) have been working together for the last 18 months to do whatever it takes to make Timmins look attractive for the construction of a ferrochrome smelter that could process chromite from the Ring of Fire properties located near Webequie, Ontario …. Laughren said Timmins has been lobbying hard to become to site of such a refinery.  “The ferrochrome processing facility would create approximately 500 construction jobs and 350 permanent jobs,” said Laughren.  The mayor said the Ring of Fire is important not only for Northern Ontario, but for the whole province.  “If we do not get energy costs down to where we can compete with Quebec and Manitoba, this will be an opportunity gone for us,” said Laughren. “The actual ferrochrome facility will not be in Ontario.” ….”  Timmins Times
• Ring of Fire expected to be discussed at national Aboriginal business conference in Ottawa.   “…. On Oct. 24-25, Ottawa will host the Aboriginal Entrepreneurs Conference and Tradeshow. Co-Chaired by federal Aboriginal Affairs Minister John Duncan and yours truly, this unique event will bring together business leaders to discuss the incredible opportunities that exist for Aboriginal entrepreneurs from coast to coast. They will be looking at some of the mega-projects that will drive Canada’s economy for years to come — Plan Nord in Quebec, the Ring of Fire in Ontario and potash mining in Saskatchewan. The conference will also offer insight and expertise on the necessary tools for Aboriginal entrepreneurs to be successful. Renowned leaders such as Kunal Gupta, CEO of Polar Mobile, Dr. Leslie Roberts of the GoForth Institute and Keith Martell, chairman and chief executive of First Nations Bank will address timely issues in business such as social media, innovation and competitiveness ….”  Financial Post
• “Rencore Resources Ltd. announces the completion of the first diamond drilling program on its wholly owned mining claims in the James Bay Lowlands of Northeastern Ontario (Ring of Fire Area) within the Webequie First Nation Traditional Lands.  The Rencore mining claims, subject of this initial drill program, are located between 30 and 60 km northwest of the Webequie First Nation community along the postulated western extension of the main Ring of Fire structure. This structure hosts a number of Chromite Deposits as well as Nickel-Copper-PGE MMS and Copper-Zinc-Lead VMS deposits presently undergoing economic mining studies by their owners …. The second half of the project drilling will commence upon the satisfactory execution of an Exploration Agreement with the Kasabonika Lake First Nation (“KLFN”). Negotiations are at an advanced stage and a positive relationship with the KLFN has been established ….”  Rencore news release

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Summary of more open source information and sources cited over the past six months (1 Sept – 24 Oct 11) also downloadable here (38 page PDF).
All information shared here in accordance with the Fair Dealing provisions (§29) of the Copyright Act.
Ring of Fire News is not responsible for accuracy of original material, and inclusion of material doesn’t mean endorsement.

Filed under: Uncategorized, 11-03-63927, Aboriginal Entrepreneurs Conference and Tradeshow, Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency, Canadian Shield, Capreol, CEAA, Christine Kaszycki, Cliffs Natural Resources, Community Economic Development Corporation, comprehensive study, Constance Lake First Nation, Dalton McGuinty, Dave Kilgour, Ecojustice, EIS, Environmental Impact Statement, Exploration Agreement, Fort William First Nation, John Duncan, joint review panel, Kasabonika Lake, Keith Hobbs, Matawa Chiefs, Matawa First Nations Management, Michael Gravelle, MiningWatch Canada, Moose Mountain, Mushkegowuk, Ontario Ring of Fire Co-ordinator, Participant Funding Program, Peter Kent, Ramsey Hart, Rencore Resources, Rick Bartolucci, Ring of Fire, Ring of fire news, Roger Wesley, Stephen Harper, Thunder Bay, Thunder Bay Hydro, Timmins, Timmins Economic Development Corporation, Tom Laughren, U.N. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Webequie, Wildlands League, Wildlife Conservation Society

Ring of Fire News – 3 Oct 11

• Is the City of Thunder Bay considering offering land to a company willing to set up a chromite smelter here?  On August 15, the City’s Inter-Governmental Liaison Committee (consisting of the Mayor, some city councillors and staff) held one of its regular meetings to discuss issues associated with dealing with other levels of government.  Part of the meeting was closed to the public to discuss “a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board.” (the Municipal Act says municipal councils and committees, as well as local boards, have to explain why meetings are closed to the public when convening them).  What was the only item of business discussed during the closed part of the meeting?  An update from the City Manager on “Ferrochrome Facility Update”.  CBC Radio Thunder Bay said last week that the City of Thunder Bay continues to work on its “business case” for having a smelter built here, and will present it to the company when the plan is complete.  Source – more (PDF)
• Meanwhile, Sudbury, Cliffs mum after their meeting in Cleveland.  “The City of Greater Sudbury has made its initial case to Cliffs Natural Resources to land a proposed ferrochrome production facility, but neither side will get into specifics about how things went at a meeting at the mining company’s head offices in Cleveland, Ohio, on Monday. “The meeting was productive and it was a great opportunity to meet with the Cliffs team,” Mayor Marianne Matichuk said in a release Tuesday. The release went on to say the “very preliminary meeting” was an information exchange and that the mayor and her staff team will continue to work with Cliffs as they continue their deliberations …. Pat Persico, Cliffs Natural Resources’ senior manager of media relations and marketing, said in a statement Tuesday that the company will not comment on the ferrochrome production facility issue until a decision on a location is made. “Cliffs understands that there are many interested stakeholders following this project,” she said in an email. “At this time, we do not have updated information to share publicly about Cliffs Chromite Project located in the Ring of Fire nor any business meetings with various cities …. “When we arrive at a decision for the (ferrochrome production facility) site, we will make a public announcement.” ….”  Source
• Aboriginal media outlet Wawatay News collects and shares party positions on the Ring of Fire and the Far North Act.  My only observation:  funny how some parties had a candidate speaking, and others just a party spokesperson.  Source – alternative download (PDF)
• ANOTHER call for a joint federal-provincial environmental assessment of proposed Ring of Fire projects.  “Matawa Chiefs are deeply concerned about the type of Environmental Assessment (EA) process that will be used to determine the impacts of two resource development projects in their traditional territories. The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (CEAA) is expected to announce the formal start of the EA process for the Cliffs Chromite Project in early October and for the Noront Eagle’s Nest Project in early November. Concerns over the EA have prompted the Matawa First Nations Chiefs to demand that a “Joint Review Panel Environmental Assessment” process be adopted in order to safeguard the sustainability and integrity of their lands ….”  Source (PDF) – Matawa’s Ring of Fire Environmental Assessment Process Facebook page
• Previous calls, mentions of a call for a joint environmental assessment of Ring of Fire projects:  9 Aug 11 – Wawatay News story; 11 Jul 11 – blog entry by KI spokesperson, environmental organization rep; 31 May 11 – Matawa  First Nations Chiefs resolution and letter to Canada’s, Ontario’s environment ministers (PDF); 3 May 11 – Environmental group letter to Canada’s Environment Minister (PDF)
• Precedent for joint panel?  9 Aug 11:  “Canada’s Environment Minister Peter Kent and Ontario’s Minister of the Environment John Wilkinson announced today the establishment of a three-member joint review panel for the environmental assessment of the proposed Marathon Platinum Group Metals and Copper Mine Project in Ontario ….” (more info here)
• Matawa, James Bay Chiefs call for honouring the spoken (not just the written) word of the Treaties. “There are changes coming, on an increasingly frequent level as many First Nations across Northern Ontario are working closer together. There are agreements on sharing information, and on mining and exploration rights being signed. Now, First Nations are uniting to implement the Oral Treaty. Seven Matawa First Nations and Seven Mushkegowuk First Nations have signed a declaration to work together to achieve the implementation of the Oral Treaty. The Chiefs Declaration states that we are “…committed to exercising our inherent and treaty rights, without limitations imposed by others. We will consider the use of any options to ensure that the development of our homelands occurs only with the free, informed and prior consent of our First Nations.” ….”  Source
• Remember the Keewatin court decision which how could have a huge impact on Ontario’s power to license forestry and/or mining in Treaty areas?  Canada and Ontario are appealing the decision.  Source
• Matawa hiring a charitable organization fundraiser for “education, social, health and community living” work in member First Nations.  “Established in 2011, The Gathering of Rivers for Community Care (GORFCC) is a Registered Charity dedicated to assisting the Matawa First Nations youth and families to achieve their goals in the areas of education, health and social and community living. GORFCC requires a Development Coordinator who will responsible for the day-to-day operations as well as the launch of the foundation, fundraising initiatives, stewardship, donor relations, and data collection. The Development Coordinator Internship will be reporting to the Chief Executive Officer of Matawa and GORFCC Board of Directors …. Application deadline is Friday October 7, 2011 by 4:30 P.M. ….”  Job posting (PDF) – Alternate download site (PDF)
• New partnership between one of the Ring of Fire First Nations and B.C.-based communications, logistics company. “Webequie First Nations and INDI Indigenous Development Inc. (INDI) (more on company here) have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) which will see the provision of communications, safety and security services to communities and commercial clients alike in the Ring of Fire. Chief Cornelious Wabasse says “I am excited about this MOU with INDI. Their core competencies of communications, safety, and security are three important dimensions for our community and for the future developments in the Ring of Fire. One of the exciting elements is that our own members can be trained in these areas for future employment and be part of the eventual full scale operations. We look forward to contractual opportunities with the main operators in the Ring of Fire.” ….”  Source
• One commentator’s take on Ring of Fire development:  “…. It makes no sense to go to war and start huge conflicts merely for the almighty dollar in developing these pristine traditional lands. Nobody would really win in this scenario. However, make no mistake about it no matter what government is in place or how much money or power industry has, if fair deals are not made with the First Nations of the “Ring Of Fire” nothing will ever be developed in this area. There will be a conflict that we will all have to endure for decades and we will waste a lot of energy, time and good will in a pointless fight ….”  Source
• Big Trout Lake (aka Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, or KI) is back in the news re:  trying to block mining exploration in their traditional territory.  “The chief of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) First Nation is calling on (Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty) to stop a gold exploration company from working on a KI ancestral burial site. “Our ancestors deserve a place where they can rest undisturbed,” Chief Donny Morris said Wednesday. “People everywhere understand that cemeteries are sacred places. But in Sherman Lake, they want to put a gold mine on one.” The band claims that mining exploration company God’s Lake Resources has staked new claims despite KI’s well-publicized moratorium, and that the company has worked the site in spite of being informed that multiple grave sites are within the claim area. Government officials have told the band that they are powerless to stop God’s Lake from working their claims in spite of bands indigenous title, and spiritual connection to the area …. “  Source – more – more – more (First Nation’s news releases, background information)
• The company’s side on the latest Big Trout Lake/KI situation:  “A junior exploration company that Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) First Nation is trying to kick off its traditional territory says its attempts to consult with the band have been met with silence.  God’s Lake Resources CEO Ed Ludwig said Thursday that the company has tried to meet with the band, without success, about the existence of sacred burial sites near where the company is exploring for gold in the Sherman Lake area. “We were told about (the potential of grave sites in the area) and have asked the chief and elders to locate them,” said Ludwig, adding that the province has made the same request. “We’ve asked that they please come and show us . . . we want to show the proper respect. “I want to respect that avenue and develop a boundary, but when questioned about where there might be grave sites, the band has provided no response,” he said. Ludwig added that company employees have so far found “no evidence of any grave sites up there” ….”  Source – more (PDF, Company’s latest Management’s Discussion and Analysis document, 29 Aug 11)
• Nishnawbe Aski Nation’s behind KI:  “Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Stan Beardy supports Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) First Nation in the community’s call for the Premier of Ontario to step in to halt mining activity within their traditional territory. “Ontario must take action to preserve its relationship with the First Nations in Ontario’s far north,” said NAN Grand Chief Stan Beardy. “Ontario must respect the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, supported by Canada, which states that free, prior, and informed consent is required from First Nations …. “ Source (NAN news release)
• Some editorial support for KI:  “Three years later and it looks like it’s business as usual in Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation. For the people who live there, it’s not a good thing. Earlier this week band leaders publicly demanded the province – in the midst of an election campaign – force mining companies to stop exploration work on their traditional territory. The community has set aside about 13,000 square kilometres of traditional land and said no exploration will be allowed until they’ve finished identifying where sacred burial sites are located. All they’ve asked for at this point is time …. While no one wants to halt development of Ontario’s north, First Nations do have the right to be consulted and negotiate before companies are allowed to stake their land. It’s the right thing to do.”  Source
• Some editorial questions for KI:  “Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) First Nation has a reputation for making demands. But what does it want? …. If KI wants this thing resolved, it has to participate. It cannot expect God’s Lake to put its plans on hold indefinitely …. “We have full intentions of exploring this property,” Ludwig said, and the province has said it has no reason to order God’s Lake to stop, though that is another thing that KI is demanding.  “Our door is always open,” said (company CEO Ed)Ludwig, “and we would welcome (KI) as a partner, providing jobs for community members — without all the political rhetoric.” What is KI waiting for? Get the elders up there and show the exploration personnel what land is off-limits.  What more does it want? The mining industry, the provincial government and the people of Northern Ontario want to know.” Source

Filed under: Uncategorized, Big Trout Lake, Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency, CEAA, City of Greater Sudbury, Cliffs Natural Resources, Cornelious Wabasse, Dalton McGuinty, Development Coordinator Internship, Donny Morris, Eagle's Nest, Ed Ludwig, Environment Canada, Far North Act, Ferrochrome Facility Update, Gathering of Rivers for Community Care, God’s Lake Resources, GORFCC, INDI, INDI Indigenous Development, Inter-Governmental Liaison Committee, John Wilkinson, joint environmental assessment, joint review panel, Keewatin v. Ministry of Natural Resources, KI, Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, Marathon Platinum Group Metals and Copper Mine Project, Marianne Matichuk, Matawa, Matawa First Nations Management, Ministry of the Environment, Municipal Act, Mushkegowuk Council, NAN, Ni-Cu-PGE, Nishnawbe Aski Nation, Noront Resources, Pat Persico, Peter Kent, proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land, Ring of Fire, Ring of fire news, Sherman Lake, Stan Beardy, Sudbury, Thunder Bay, United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Wawatay News, Webequie

Ring of Fire News – 5 Sept 11

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• Four NW Ontario First Nations sign a Ring of Fire collaboration deal, endorse rail link to ROF area.  “…. The East-West Corridor Collaborative Agreement was signed between the communities of Webequie, Neskantaga, Eabametoong and Nibinamik. Since March 2010, the First Nations have been working towards a community-driven strategy to develop a preferred corridor through their traditional territories. The goal is to establish a First Nation joint venture that will operate an infrastructure, transportation and service corridor for northern First Nations and other activities in the Ring of Fire. The First Nation Chiefs were supported by their Councils during today’s signing ceremony in Thunder Bay …. One of the major objectives outlined in the East-West Corridor Collaborative Agreement is to ensure that community members from the four First Nations realize the maximum possible benefits from the corridor development ….”  (Sources:  First Nations news release, tbnewswatch.com, Canadian Press, 31 Aug 11; Chronicle-Journal, 1 Sept 11)
• Webequie First Nation hires “Ring of Fire Senior Director”.   “Webequie First Nation introduced Michael Fox, President of Fox High Impact Consulting, as Webequie’s Ring of Fire Senior Director. Fox will be working to ensure a community-driven approach and community-based opportunities related to the development of the Ring of Fire are recognized and realized by companies and governments …. (Chief Cornelius Wabasse says) ” Michael recognizes that agreements with companies and governments are premised on the community’s Aboriginal and Treaty rights and that any Impact and Benefits Agreement has to be ratified by the community members” …. (Ring of Fire) project submissions trigger a legal process and will now formalize Webequie First Nation’s engagement with both companies and governments. “We will be assembling our negotiating team and executing our community-based strategy with both companies in the very near future,” says Michael Fox. “We will also be engaging with Marten Falls First Nation at a Council-to-Council level for the Mine Sites developments. And we definitely look forward to continued discussions with regional First Nations on infrastructure corridor initiatives.” ….”  (Sources:  First Nation news release, tbnewswatch.com, 29 Aug 11; Chronicle-Journal, 30 Aug 11)
• Sudbury:  Talking to cabinet ministers + provincial party leaders at municipal conference = clinching its spot as a Ring of Fire hub?  “Sudbury council members said recent talks with provincial ministers have resulted in a renewed commitment to keep Ring of Fire infrastructure in the North. “We heard directly from all three parties that they are committed to keeping the Ring of Fire refinery jobs in Northern Ontario,” Councillor Dave Kilgour reported in a news release. “This is welcoming news as these jobs are imperative for the growth of our community.” Municipal representatives from across Ontario are in London this week for the annual Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) conference. Kilgour is joined by Mayor Marianne Matichuk and Councillors Fabio Belli and Andre Rivest. While there, the Sudbury delegation met with Infrastructure Minister Bob Chiarelli, Northern Development Minister Michael Gravelle, Conservative Party Deputy Minister Christine Elliot and NDP Leader Andrea Horwath ….”  (Source:  Northern Ontario Business, 26 Jul 11)
• “…. KWG’s railway infrastructure project has been well timed and the need for a railway in the Ring of Fire seems highly economic. Meetings with government and First Nations officials are ongoing to determine a mutually beneficial result. As well, KWG continues to explore the available funding mechanisms that can be employed to continue development of the railroad link to the Ring of Fire …..”  (Source:  KWG Management and Discussion Analysis document (PDF) as of 30 Jun 11 via SEDAR)
• “KWG Resources Inc. has completed the acquisition of 7 million treasury units of its subsidiary Debut Diamonds Inc. valued at $0.30 each in exchange for subscription receipts for 21 million KWG treasury units valued at $0.10 each. The Debut units each comprised one new treasury share and one share purchase warrant; each Debut warrant may be exercised to acquire an additional Debut treasury share upon payment of $0.40 at any time within 5 years. The KWG subscription receipts are exchangeable for KWG treasury units which will each comprise one new treasury share and one share purchase warrant; each KWG warrant may be exercised to acquire an additional KWG treasury share upon payment of $0.15 at any time within 5 years. “This exchange will provide KWG with additional shares of Debut for distribution to the KWG shareholders while providing Debut with sufficient working capital to qualify for listing”, said KWG President Frank Smeenk. “At the same time it permitted Debut to close the acquisition of an option to earn an interest in the Nakina targets, comprising 33 interpreted geophysical targets in 28 claim blocks north of Nakina. These include some of the best magnetic targets seen in Ontario since the Attawapiskat cluster, and resulted from analysis of the Ontario Geological Survey data made public in late 2010.” ….”  (Sources:  KWG news release, Debut Diamonds news release, 29 Aug 11)
• “MacDonald Mines Limited is pleased to announce that the Company has completed nine holes, totaling 2,553 metres, of an ongoing drilling program on its Ring of Fire, Semple-Hulbert project near Kasabonika, Ontario. Following initial assay and geophysical results the spring/summer program was completed in August. The company is currently reviewing all data as it awaits final assays, which will allow for both additional geological and geophysical interpretation …. Results of the program will be released as soon as they have been received and reviewed. Camp Relocation: The company will also relocate its exploration camp to newly discovered favourable geology. This will also provide important cost saving in the forth-coming drilling exploration ….”  (Source:  Company news release, 26 Aug 11)
• “UC Resources Ltd. is pleased to provide an update of the drilling of a recently discovered anomaly in the McFaulds lake area of the “Ring of Fire” in Northern, Ontario. The company completed its 1200 metre, 2-hole core drilling program at McFaulds Lake property and submitted 126 cut core samples for assay. A description of the core encountered during the program has been provided below by M.J. (Moe) Lavigne, P. Geo, who was acting as QP for this drill program and a qualified person pursuant to National Instrument 43-101 has reviewed and approved the technical information in this press release on behalf of the company …. Based on a visual estimate, the copper content of the mineralization encountered will not exceed 0.5%, but are good candidates for PGE enrichment. The magnetite rich rocks encountered are also good candidate for PGE enrichment, and may also have elevated vanadium and titanium …. Assaying will be conducted by Activation Laboratories Ltd of Ancaster, Ontario and results will be press released upon arrival ….” (Source: Company news release, 29 Aug 11)

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Summary of more open source information and sources cited (1-31 Aug 11) also available here (PDF).  All information shared here in accordance with the Fair Dealing provisions (§29) of the Copyright Act.  We’re not responsible for accuracy of original material, and inclusion of material doesn’t mean endorsement.

Filed under: Uncategorized, Activation Laboratories, AMO, Andre Rivest, Andrea Horwath, Association of Municipalities of Ontario, Bob Chiarelli, Christine Elliot, Cornelius Wabasse, Dave Kilgour, Debut Diamonds, Eabametoong, East-West Corridor Collaborative Agreement, Fabio Belli, Fox High Impact Consulting, Frank Smeenk, Kasabonika, KWG Resources, M.J. Lavigne, MacDonald Mines, Marianne Matichuk, Marten Falls, McFaulds Lake, Michael Fox, Michael Gravelle, Moe Lavigne, Neskantaga, Nibinamik, PGE, Ring of Fire, Ring of fire news, Ring of Fire Senior Director, Semple-Hulbert project, Sudbury, titanium, UC Resources, vanadium, Webequie

Ring of Fire News – 22 Aug 11

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Information shared here in accordance with the Fair Dealing provisions (§29) of the Copyright Act.  We’re not responsible for accuracy of original material, and inclusion of material doesn’t mean endorsement.

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• FedNor money reportedly to be used to help First Nations deal with the Ring of Fire.  “Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund plans to support small and medium-sized businesses in the 33 communities it serves in northwestern Ontario with a recent $1.36 million investment from FedNor. “In addition, it will help us meet the growing need for investment capital so Aboriginal people can benefit from business opportunities related to resource developments, including the area known as the Ring of Fire,” said NADF chair Madeline Commanda. NADF will use $960,000 to offer business support services and access to capital to small and medium-sized enterprises over a three-year period. A further $400,000 will be used to provide small and medium-sized enterprises with repayable loans, equity and loan guarantees ….”  (Sources:  Wawatay News, 18 Aug 11; FedNor news release, 11 Aug 11)
• Grassy Narrows court decision = impact on licensing/exploration in Ring of Fire?  “A northwestern Ontario aboriginal community is declaring victory in its 11-year court battle to stop logging on traditional lands — a ruling their lawyer says could have legal implications for similar disputes across Canada. The Grassy Narrows First Nation challenged the province’s right to permit industrial logging on its traditional lands, saying it infringed on their hunting and trapping rights under a treaty they signed in 1873 …. Robert Janes, a lawyer for the First Nation, said the judge noted in her 300-page ruling that the federal government promised to defend their rights, but hasn’t done so for many years. The ruling will likely have legal implications for similar disputes in Ontario — such as the massive Ring of Fire chromite deposit in the north — and in other parts of the country, he said. It may even change government policy. “Madam Justice Sanderson was very clear that each treaty has its own history, has to be dealt with on its own, but there’s clear implications for the other treaties and the way they’re to be interpreted,” he said. Ms. Sanderson also made it clear that the federal government has a duty to protect the rights of aboriginal people, Mr. Janes said ….”  (Source:  Globe & Mail, 17 Aug 11)
• “Rencore Resources Ltd. is pleased to announce the first diamond drilling program to commence on its wholly owned mining claims in the James Bay Lowlands of Northeastern Ontario (Ring of Fire Area) within the Webequie First Nation Traditional Lands. This initial program tests approximately one half of the high priority drill targets that Rencore has in the Ring of Fire area. The other half of the drill targets that Rencore has in the Ring of Fire area are found within Kasabonika Lake First Nation Traditional Lands (“KLFN”). That program, yet to be initiated in the KLFN, is pending conclusion of ongoing negotiations …. The Rencore mining claims, subject of this initial drill program, are strategically located between 30 and 60 km northwest of the Webequie First Nation community along the postulated western extension of the main Ring of Fire structure. This structure hosts a number of Chromite Deposits as well as Nickel-Copper-PGE MMS and Copper-Zinc-Lead VMS deposits presently undergoing economic mining studies by their owners. The 8 drill targets being tested by Rencore with approximately 1200 meters of drilling are the highest priority anomalies resulting from an electromagnetic and magnetometer VTEM airborne survey carried out over the mining claims and surrounding area during 2010 by GeoTech Ltd. of Aurora, Ontario. The helicopter supported drilling program will be carried out under contract with Cyr Drilling Ontario Inc. with Webequie Logistics Ltd. providing crew accommodations and local labour requirements ….”  (Source:  company news release, 18 Aug 11)
• “Cliffs Natural Resources, the top US iron-ore miner, has agreed with a group of lenders to bump up its revolving credit facility to $1.75-billion, with the option of expanding it by an additional $250-million, according to a regulatory filing on Wednesday. The loan, which replaces a 2007 $600-million facility, matures in August 2016 and will go towards refinancing existing debt, general working capital needs and for other purposes including buyouts, the company said. In June, Cliffs issued a prospectus to raise up to $872-million in a share offering to pay down its debt, but this week said the market collapse of early August had prompted it to rather launch a share buy-back in the immediate term. The company owns iron-ore mines in the US and Canada, and also plans to build a ferrochrome smelter in the Great White North, which it will feed with chrome from its projects in Northern Ontario’s Ring of Fire area ….”  (Sources:  miningweekly.com, 17 Aug 11; )
• “Ontario Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner says he wants to focus on creating more local jobs. Schreiner paid his first visit to Thunder Bay on Saturday as part of his tour of Northwestern Ontario. Schreiner and Green party candidate for Thunder Bay – Superior North Scot Kyle toured downtown Port Arthur before meeting with local party supporters …. Schreiner said he was in support of mining development projects such as the Ring of Fire as long as developers managed the project in an environmentally friendly way and kept jobs in northern Ontario ….”  (Source:  tbnewswatch.com, 21 Aug 11)

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Summary of more open source information and sources cited (1-21 Aug 11) also available here (PDF).

Filed under: Uncategorized, Cliffs Natural Resources, FedNor, GeoTech Ltd., Grassy Narrows, Justice Mary Anne Sanderson, Kasabonika Lake, Madeline Commanda, Mike Schreiner, Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund, Ontario Green Party, Rencore Resources, Robert Janes, Scot Kyle, Wawatay News, Webequie

Ring of Fire News, 2 Aug 11

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The Ring of Fire News blog shares public information in accordance with the Fair Dealing provisions (§29) of the Copyright Act, and is not responsible for the accuracy of the original material.  Inclusion of material or sources here should not imply endorsement or otherwise by the Ring of Fire News blog.

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• KWG sells smelter royalties to raise some money  “TSX V-listed KWG Resources on Tuesday said it agreed to sell smelter royalties in three of its chrome deposits in Northern Ontario’s Ring of Fire to Anglo Pacific Group for $18-million.  KWG owns 28% of the Big Daddy chrome project, with US miner Cliffs Natural Resources owing the rest, and also held a 1% net smelter royalty on the Black Thor, Black Label and Big Daddy assets.  “The group anticipates that the royalties from these chromite deposits, the largest known deposits of chromite ore in North America, will provide long term cash flows and continuing revenue growth for shareholders,” London-based Anglo Pacific chairpserson Peter Boycott said.  Cliffs aims to complete a prefeasibility study on the Black Thor project by September, with a full feasibility due for completion late next year.  First production has been pencilled in for 2015 ….”  (Sources:  KWG news release, stockmarketwire.com and miningweekly.com, 2 Aug 11)
• Latest quarterly results from CLF  “Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. today reported second-quarter results for the period ended June 30, 2011 . Consolidated revenues were up 52% for the second quarter to a record $1.8 billion, from $1.2 billion in the same quarter last year. Operating income for the second quarter was $617 million, an increase of 69% from the comparable quarter in 2010 …. The Company expects to incur the following growth-related cash outflows …. Approximately $45 million related to its chromite project in Ontario, Canada ….”  (Sources:  company  news release, quarterly report, 27 Jul 11)
• Sudbury-area MPP:  Sudbury’s still a good place for a smelter (even if nobody else returns reporter’s calls)  “Cliffs Natural Resources of Cleveland has yet to decide where it will build a smelter to process chromite concentrate from its Ring of Fire properties in northwestern Ontario.  A promotional video on the Cliffs’ website about the company’s three chromite deposits in the zone (Black Thor, Black Label and Big Daddy), entitled Value Beneath the Surface, highlights Greater Sudbury as one of the four communities where an enclosed chromite electric arc furnace facility could be built ….  In February, Cliffs indicated in a report it was using Greater Sudbury as a “base case” for a chromite smelting facility and said the site was a “brownfield” or no longer in use piece of industrial land about 25 km from Capreol.  Sudbury Liberal MPP Rick Bartolucci said this week he wants to Cliffs set up the chromite processing facility in Ontario, his preferred site being the proposed location near Capreol.  “As a community, we are making a very, very attractive case why that mining plant should be started in Capreol,” he said.  When asked about the province’s higher hydro rates being a deterrent to Cliffs picking an Ontario site, Bartolucci said it would still make sense to build the facility in this province.  “We have put in place a very, very competitive tax structure that will see the costs offset by the incredible tax benefits the government offers,” he said.  The MPP said the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation is the lead player in the local push to land the processing plant in the Nickel Capital.  Neither Ian Wood, acting director of economic development at the city, nor Doug Nadorozny, the city’s chief administrative officer, could be reached for comment. Company officials could not be reached, either ….”  (Source:  Sudbury Star, 29 Jul 11)
• Wildlands League, Noront to Ontario:  Help First Nations develop land use plans  “The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society’s Wildlands League and Noront Resources Ltd. are coming together and urging the Ontario government to begin land use planning with First Nations communities within the Ring of Fire chromite deposit.  In a letter addressed to various government ministers, the public interest group Wildlands League and Canadian mining company Noront highlight the “urgent need” to develop and approve compressive land use plans that will protect First Nations’ land while preventing delays and missteps for mining companies developing in the area.  “What First Nations communities need to see is the options available to them and the cost and benefits of those options,” said Anna Baggio the director of conservation and land use planning at Wildlands League.  Land use agreements are part of the government’s Far North Act, which aims to protect 50 per cent of Northern land (225,000 kilometres) from development while providing stability for mining companies exploring and developing in Northern Ontario. Baggio said land use agreements with First Nations communities and should have been implemented last fall when the Far North Act was initially passed …. “What it is, is getting a plan and moving that plan forward. Time is of the essence and the sooner development happens the sooner we are able to develop projects that are socially and environmentally responsible,” said Noront Resources’ president and chief executive officer Wesley Hanson …. “There are some companies that have not come to the table to sign exploration agreements, but more are becoming aware now,” said Webequie’s head band councillor Elcie MacDonald. “Nothing is going to come out of it unless they sign the exploration agreement.” …. Noront Resources and the Wildlands League said that without a plan to replace land use agreements, the path to responsibly and effectively developing Ring of Fire could be damaged.  “The First Nations knowledge is vital to consider in any type of infrastructure development because they have traditional areas that would impact them and knowing those areas in advance and being able to plan out development without impacting the traditional way of life of life in communities,” said (Noront CEO Wes) Hanson.  Baggio said the letter has yet to prompt a response from the government, but she does expect that the Ministers will respond.”  (Source:  Kenora Daily Miner & News, 27 Jul 11)

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Summary of more open source information and sources cited (1 Jul – 2 Aug 11) also available here (PDF).

Filed under: Uncategorized, Anglo Pacific Group, Anna Baggio, Big Daddy, Black Thor, Cliffs Natural Resources, Doug Nadorozny, Elcie MacDonald, Ian Wood, KWG Resources, Noront Resources, Peter Boycott, Rick Bartolucci, Webequie, Wildlands League