The open-pit iron ore mine proposed by Howse Minerals Limited has been given the go-ahead by Ottawa, as it is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.
“The meaningful consultation with Indigenous groups and the public, in combination with expert advice across federal departments, ensured a thorough environmental assessment process,” says Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change. “Projects such as this one play a vital role in our economy in creating jobs and economic growth.”
In reaching her decision, the Minister considered the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency’s Environmental Assessment Report. The Report includes the Agency’s conclusions and recommendations on the potential environmental effects of the project, the proposed mitigation measures, the significance of any adverse environmental effects and the follow-up program.
It is located in Newfoundland and Labrador, approximately 25 kilometres northwest of Schefferville, Que.
As part of the Environmental Assessment Decision Statement, the Minister established 109 legally-binding conditions, including mitigation measures and follow-up requirements that the proponent must meet throughout the life of the project. Implementing these conditions will reduce or eliminate the potential effects of the project on the environment.
Today’s decision reflects the Government of Canada’s Interim Approach and Principles for environmental assessments, which ensures that project decisions are informed by meaningful consultations with Indigenous peoples, public input and scientific evidence, including Indigenous Traditional Knowledge, and an assessment of greenhouse gas emissions.
(Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency)
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