Ajax mine will be well studied, says head of mining association

Monday, May 2, 2011

Robert Koopmans
Kamloops Daily News Staff Reporter

The proposed Ajax mine will undergo a rigorous environmental review that will address a range of concerns, including social impacts, the president of the B.C. Mining Association said Monday.

Pierre Gratton said there are many examples of mines situated in close proximity to communities, across B.C. and Canada. Many of B.C.'s mines provided the economic stimulus for the towns' existence.

While some in the community have expressed concerns about the impacts of the mine on Kamloops — the proposed open pit is only a few kilometres beyond the City of Kamloops border beside Jacko Lake — there will be significant opportunity in the review process to have those concerns heard.

Gratton said the environmental review processes — both provincial and federal — could well take in excess of two years to complete.

He said there is nothing "pro industry" or "pro mining" about the assessments. Instead they are detailed technical evaluations that will look at short- and long-term impacts of such industrial activity.

Throughout the process, the proponents will also have the opportunity to share with governments and residents their vision for operations.

He also said mine activity close to Kamloops — especially if some of it takes place within city limits as proposed — could benefit residents through significant taxes the operation would no doubt pay.

Gratton, who was in Kamloops speaking to a mining luncheon at the Tk'emlups band offices, told the group the local co-operation between governments, First Nations and mining companies like New Gold should serve as the model for such partnerships.

"What we have here in this region is a model for the rest of the province, arguably it's a model for the rest of the country," he said.

"There are so many players who have come together to create winning conditions. The mining industry will thrive as a result of these win-win situations, and will benefit all of us."

Shane Gottfriedson, chief of the TIB, recalled the first meetings between the TIB, the Skeetchestn Indian Band and New Gold.

"It was not an easy discussion. It was a process of education," he said.

The bands talked with each other and with New Gold about what all the parties wanted out of a business relationship.

Gottfriedson said the ultimate goal — aside from a portion of the tax revenue — was to create long-term employment opportunities for area band members.

"Everybody wants to be able to wok for a living," he said. "We wanted to build a partnership to create employment for the people."

More work needs to be done, especially with regard to training, to make sure local band members have the chance to seek employment, the chief said.

"With teamwork we create action and pride. We can build a stronger Kamloops together."

About 70 people attended the luncheon.