| HOME WISE Uranium Project > Mining & Milling > Issues > New Uranium Mining Projects - North America > |
(last updated 16 Aug 2024)
 (Maps and boundary data are copyrighted by FOTW - Flags Of The World web site) |
> See also: New Uranium Mining Projects - Canada (Archive)
Map of Uranium Activities in Canada 
(15k - CCNR)
Map of Uranium Mining Developments in Saskatchewan and NWT 
(88k - Environment Canada)
(CGN), one of the country's two state reactor builders, is looking to invest in mines in Canada "in the near future", a top official with the firm said on Friday (Dec. 5).
> See older issues
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Yukon:
Pitchblack Resources Ltd. ,
Acme Resources Inc. ,
Twenty-Seven Capital Corp.,
Logan Resources Ltd. ,
Rimfire Minerals Corporation ,
Strategic Metals Ltd. ,
Fjordland Exploration Inc. ,
Copper Ridge Explorations Inc. ,
Landmark Minerals Inc. ,
Freegold Ventures Ltd
, which is exploring for uranium in the central Yukon area, included a winter road along the river in its land-use application.
The proposed road, which would lead to the company's uranium claims, would follow an old mining road known as the Wind River Trail north of Keno. is currently reviewing Cash Minerals' application and has extended the public comment period for it twice until Dec. 10, 2007.
The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) has issued an action alert to its members, saying the company's uranium mining venture is speculative and would pose huge risks for the pristine watershed.
(CBC Nov. 20, 2007 / Dec. 7, 2007)
On Dec. 24, 2007, the district office of the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board (YESAB) recommended the approval to the Yukon government, with the provision that Cash Minerals Ltd. fulfill 46 specific conditions to minimize impact. The Yukon government has 30 days - until Jan. 28 - to accept, reject or alter the conditions recommended by the YESAB office. (Whitehorse Star Jan. 2, 2008)
On Jan. 22, 2008, the Yukon government has given Cash Minerals the green light to build a controversial winter road in the Wind River Valley area, but it also denied permission to build an airstrip along the route. The 178-kilometre winter road, to be built on the existing Wind River Trail north of Mayo, will allow Cash Minerals to haul equipment and supplies to its uranium mining claims in the area. The government's decision was based on recommendations from the Yukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Board, which approved both the road and airstrip. But information about the company's proposed airstrip was too vague to ensure it would not have adverse impacts on wilderness tourism activity in the region, according to officials with the government's lands branch, which is part of the Energy, Mines and Resources Department. (CBC Jan. 23, 2008)
> Access YESAB Online Registry (YOR)
(Project No. 2007-0205: Wernecke Winter Road Access Project)
> View CPAWS release: Yukon's Three Rivers threatened by proposed mining exploration roads, Nov. 15, 2007
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in British Columbia: Aldershot Resources Ltd.,
Kaminak Gold Corporation ,
Santoy Resources Ltd. ,
Sparton Resources Inc. ,
International Ranger Corp. ,
Logan Resources Ltd. ,
Marvel Discovery Corp. ,
Gemco Minerals Inc. ,
EKG Minerals Inc. ,
American Creek Resources Ltd. ,
Hi Ho Silver Resources Inc. ,
Goldcliff Resource Corporation ,
Manson Creek Resources Ltd. ,
Golden Reign Resources Ltd. ,
Transglobal Mining Corp. ,
Castle Resources Inc. ,
Garnet Point Resources Corp. ,
Saturn Minerals Inc. ,
NXA Inc.
Uranium mining in British Columbia is opposed by
Uranium Free B.C. Coalition, Yellowhead Ecological Association (YEA) ,
Committee for a Clean Kettle Valley (CCKV) .
On April 24, 2008, British Columbia imposed a ban on uranium exploration (view details)
On February 22, 2021, the company announced a name change to Marvel Discovery Corp. .
On July 21, 2015, Boss Power Corp. announced a name change to Eros Resources Corp.
held a standing-room-only meeting in Rock Creek on Jan. 24, 2009. A strategy meeting to oppose uranium mining in B.C. will be held in Kelowna on Feb. 21, 2009.
"Residents are up in arms about the lifting of the government's own moratorium on uranium mining along the Kettle River," said Jenny Fletcher, committee spokeswoman. applied to the province for work permits on the Blizzard claim on April 21, 2008. Three days later, the province announced a moratorium on uranium development.
Boss Power filed a damages lawsuit on Oct. 16, 2008, but the province's Nov. 28 statement of defence apparently says the moratorium doesn't apply to Blizzard. However, the company still hasn't received any work permits.
(The Daily Courier Jan. 29, 2009)
held an open house to answer questions and concerns citizens of the valley had about the drilling and exploration that the company has applied for a permit for from the The Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources.
(Clearwater Times July 17, 2006)
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in
Alberta:
CanAlaska Ventures Limited ,
Firestone Ventures Inc. ,
International Ranger Corp. ,
Marum Resources Inc. ,
North American Gem Inc. ,
Geo Minerals Ltd. ,
AREVA Resources Canada Inc.,
Solitaire Minerals Corp. ,
Thelon Ventures Ltd. ,
Triex Minerals Corporation ,
Yellow Cake PLC ,
Roughrider Uranium Corp.,
Fission Uranium Corp. ,
Tribune Minerals Corp. ,
Black Hawk Exploration Inc. ,
DNI Metals Inc. ,
GoldMining Inc.
Positive Preliminary Economic Assessment announced for Buckton polymetallic deposit:
On Dec. 5, 2013, DNI Metals Inc. announced a summary of results from an independent NI 43-101 Preliminary Economic Assessment Technical Report (the "PEA") for the Buckton Deposit on its 100% owned SBH Property, located 120 kilometres north of Fort McMurray in northeast Alberta. The polymetallic Buckton Deposit is hosted in black shales and is in one of six mineralized zones discovered on the Property.
The PEA demonstrates that the Buckton Deposit has the potential to be a significant supplier of uranium and REE. The mining design is a low strip ratio, high tonnage co-production of Ni-U-Zn-Cu-Co-REE-Y. The metals extraction design basis is bio-heap leaching, followed by metals extraction from leach solution, and a process plant for separating purified individual REE oxides. The projected average annual production capacity is approximately 1 million pounds of uranium yellowcake [385 t U] and 5,500 tonnes of rare earth oxides, of which over 40% are made up of heavy rare earth elements.
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Manitoba:
CanAlaska Uranium Limited ,
East Nickel Mining Inc. ,
Crescent Resources Corp. ,
RJK Explorations Ltd. ,
Santoy Resources Ltd. ,
Pitchblack Resources Ltd. ,
ValGold Resources Ltd. ,
Rare Earth Metals Corp. ,
Hinterland Metals Inc. ,
Callinan Mines Ltd ,
Temex Resources Corp. ,
East Resource Ltd.
has signed a memorandum of understanding with a Chinese company to undertake joint exploration for uranium on its 100 per cent owned North East Wollaston Project.
Under the agreement, East Nickel Mining Inc. (ERI) can earn between a 40 per cent to a 95 per cent interest in the project, depending on the amount of work it does at the site.
(Star Phoenix Dec. 5, 2008)
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Québec:
Aldershot Resources Ltd.,
Azimut Exploration Inc. ,
Kennecott Exploration Company, Pitchblack Resources Ltd. ,
Pacific Bay Minerals, Ltd. ,
Ressources d'Arianne Inc. ,
Ditem Explorations, Inc. ,
Eloro Resources Ltd. ,
Entourage Mining Ltd. ,
Fieldex Exploration Inc. ,
U Mining Resources Inc. ,
Globex Mining Enterprises Inc. ,
Golden Valley Mines Ltd. ,
Laramide Resources Ltd.,
Matamec Explorations Inc. ,
Metalex Ventures Ltd. ,
Nova Uranium Corp.,
Quinto Mining Inc. ,
BacTech Mining Corporation ,
Starfire Minerals Inc. ,
Strateco Resources Inc. ,
Uranium Mining Corporation plc. ,
Waseco Resources Inc. ,
Uramin Inc.,
Uranium Mines of Canada, Plc.,
Cameco,
NWT Uranium Corp.,
AntOro Resources Inc. ,
Vanadian Energy Corp. ,
Sheridan Platinum Group Ltd,
Anglo-Canadian Uranium Corp. ,
Fort Chimo Minerals Inc. ,
Limestone Basin Exploration Ltd. ,
Uranor Inc.,
Virginia Mines Inc. ,
Uranium Star Corp. ,
Richmond Minerals Inc. ,
Freewest Resources Canada Inc. ,
Dios Exploration Inc. ,
Xemplar Energy Corp. ,
Noront Resources Ltd. ,
Aurizon Mines Ltd. ,
Ressources Appalaches ,
Landmark Minerals Inc. ,
Northcore Resources Inc. ,
Jetcom Inc. ,
Yellowcake Resources Inc. ,
Kodiak Exploration Ltd. ,
Hinterland Metals Inc. ,
Lexam Explorations Inc. ,
Kakanda Resources Corp. ,
Santoy Resources Ltd. ,
Majescor Resources Inc. ,
International Kirkland Minerals Inc. ,
Pro-Spect-Or Resources Inc. ,
Otish Energy Inc. ,
Abbastar Uranium Corp. ,
NioGold Mining Corp. ,
Stellar Pacific Ventures Inc. ,
Typhoon Exploration Inc. ,
Everton Resources Inc. ,
Canam Energy Inc. ,
Terra Ventures Inc. ,
VVC Exploration Corp. ,
Manicouagan Minerals Inc. ,
Icon Industries Limited ,
Diagnos Inc. ,
Augyva Mining Resources Inc. ,
Novawest Resources Inc. ,
Colt Resources Inc. ,
Core Resources Ltd ,
Sirios Resources Inc. ,
U Mining Resources Inc. ,
Vior Inc. ,
Perihelion Canada, Inc. ,
Bearclaw Capital Corp. ,
Tribune Uranium Corp. ,
Fission Uranium Corp. ,
Central Uranium Corporation,
Abitex Resources Inc. ,
Channel Resources Ltd. ,
Vantex Resources Ltd. ,
Northfield Metals Inc. ,
Amseco Exploration Ltd. ,
Kativik Resources Inc.,
Midland Exploration Inc. ,
Western Troy Capital Resources Inc. ,
Société québécoise d'exploration minière (SOQUEM) ,
Commerce Resources Corp. ,
Razor Resources Inc ,
Quest Rare Minerals Ltd. ,
Nebu Resources Inc. ,
Fancamp Exploration Ltd. ,
Areva Resources,
RT Minerals Corp. ,
Exploration NQ Inc. ,
Element92 Resources Corp. ,
Brazos International Exploration, Inc. (> SEC),
Stelmine Canada Ltd ,
VanadiumCorp Resource Inc. ,
Priority Uranium Corporation ,
Jourdan Resources Inc. ,
Terra Firma Resources Inc. ,
Gimus Resources Inc. (> SEDAR)
Uranium mining development in Québec is being opposed by l'Association pour la Protection de l'Environnement des Hautes-Laurentides (APEHL) ,
Sept-Îles Sans Uranium ,
Coalition STOP Uranium Baie des Chaleurs (email: stopuraniumbdc@gmail.com),
Minganie sans uranium,
James Bay Cree Against Uranium .
See also blog by Michael Patenaude: "Oppose Uranium Exploration and Mining in West Quebec! "
and the Coalition Québec Meilleure Mine urge the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission to stop intervening in ways that more closely resemble lobbying in favour of the nuclear industry than acting as the neutral and objective regulatory watchdog that it is supposed to be.
The non-governmental organizations, representing over 50 member groups across Canada, are reacting to today's press release and recent report produced by the Canadian Coalition for Nuclear Responsibility (CCNR) , which is highly critical of a presentation given on January 22 by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) to senior Québec government officials. Entitled "Uranium in Québec - Facts and Consequences", the CCNR report states that "the credibility of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission is seriously compromised" by "biased and misleading" statements made by CNSC's Patsy Thompson to the Québec Interdepartmental Committee on uranium.
(MiningWatch Canada / Coalition Québec Meilleure Mine, Mar. 3, 2016)
(AFNQL) today, First Nations from across the province reaffirmed their opposition to uranium development on their territories and throughout Québec. The workshop brought together representatives of First Nations from across Québec to discuss the future of uranium development in Québec.
(AFNQL Sept. 25, 2014)
(in French)
(full text in French, summaries in English)
Pre-consultation phase of public inquiry into environmental impacts of uranium projects in Québec starts:
The inquiry commission of the Bureau d'audiences publiques sur l'environnement (BAPE) will begin its pre-consultation phase on May 20, 2014, in Montréal and then will continue in different regions.
> View BAPE release May 16, 2014, with session schedule
Inquiry commission releases study on impacts of uranium exploration and mining in Québec:
> Download: Étude sur l'état des connaissances, les impacts et les mesures d'atténuation de l'exploration et de l'exploitation des gisements d'uranium, sur le territoire québécois (Current State of Knowledge, Impacts and Mitigation Measures for Uranium Exploration and Extraction in Québec), prepared by Diversification de l'exploration minérale au Québec (DIVEX) for the Ministère du Développement durable, de l'Environnement, de la Faune et des Parcs and the Ministère des Ressources naturelles, 10 April 2014 (4.1MB PDF - in French)
A coalition of environmental groups has serious doubts about the impartiality of a study commissioned by Québec to the Bureau d'audiences publiques sur l'environnement (BAPE) in the case of uranium.
The coalition Pour que le Québec ait meilleure mine believes that the report is "incomplete" and underestimates many factors which are essential to understanding the issue.
(Le Devoir Apr. 18, 2014)
The Grand Council of the Crees has called upon the Premier and his government to ensure that English versions are prepared for all documents relating to the public hearings of the Bureau d'audiences publiques sur l'environnement (BAPE) regarding the uranium sector.
"We were troubled to learn that the complete document was made available on Wednesday (Apr. 16) only in French, when it is well known that a large proportion of the Cree population does not speak that language. The English summary document that has been made available is brief and incomplete. This situation does not facilitate the full participation of the Cree Nation in this important process and does not respect the Crees' treaty rights", said Grand Chief Matthew Coon Come.
(Grand Council of the Crees Apr. 18, 2014)
Province-wide public hearings on exploration and mining of uranium to be held in Québec:
On Mar. 3, 2014, Québec Environment Minister Yves-François Blanchet announced he granted a mandate to the Bureau d'audiences publiques sur l'environnement (BAPE) to conduct province-wide public hearings regarding the exploration and mining of uranium in Québec.
The inquiry commission's mandate will begin on May 20, 2014, and is for a term of no more than one year. The BAPE's report must be delivered to the Minister by May 20, 2015, and the Minister will then have 60 days to make it public.
Québec plans public inquiry into environmental impacts of uranium projects in the Province, delaying Matoush project:
The Minister of the Environment of Québec plans to ask the Bureau d'audiences publiques sur l'environnement (BAPE - Office of Public Inquiries on the Environment) to assess the impacts of uranium exploration and exploitation in the province.
This announcement dampens the enthusiasm of mining company Strateco Resources, which received CNSC approval for its Matoush exploration project on Wednesday (Oct. 17). On Thursday (Oct. 18), minister Breton declared that the company will have to wait for the conclusions to be drawn by BAPE.
(Radio Canada Oct. 18, 2012)
Property owners of Pointe-à-la-Croix forbid exploration company to enter their ground: More than 125 property owners have sent registered letters forbidding access to their ground to the company Terra Firma Resources Inc. The company wants to explore uranium deposits in the Pointe-à-la-Croix area. (Radio Canada Apr. 13, 2011)
Doctors and Métis demand moratorium for uranium exploration in Gaspé peninsula
18 medical doctors in the Baie des Chaleurs area have signed an open letter demanding the halt of uranium exploration at Pointe-à-la-Croix and Escuminac.
The Métis community of Gaspé, too, has demanded a moratorium.
(L'Écho de la Baie Feb. 1, 2011)
On Feb. 2, 2011, the Conseil d'administration of the Centre de santé et de services sociaux de la Baie-des-Chaleurs (CSSSBC) has demanded the Québec government to impose a moratorium on uranium exploration and mining on the territory of Baie-des-Chaleurs, until the results of a study on the health effects of uranium are available. The results of the study conducted by experts of the Institut national de santé publique du Québec (INSPQ) are expected in winter 2012.
> Download CSSSBC communique Feb. 2, 2012 (PDF - in French)
Uranium exploration on Gaspé peninsula faces obstacles
The uranium exploration planned by Terra Firma Resources Inc. on its Restigouche property on Gaspé peninsula faces obstacles: the most promising Cross Point block is soon to be added to the Listuguj Indian Reserve ; in addition, the mayor of Pointe-à-la-Croix firmly opposes uranium exploration and mining at the Mann block and supports the newly formed Coalition Stop uranium Baie des Chaleurs .
(Le Soleil Nov. 25, 2010)
(in French)
National Public Health Institute of Québec performs study on hazards of proposed uranium mining in Côte-Nord area:
L'Institut national de santé publique du Québec (INSPQ) has formed a working group to perform a study on the hazards of uranium mining. The project was started in response to last year's protests against uranium mining in Sept-Îles. The report is to be published in one year from now.
(Radio Canada Feb. 5, 2011)
The study was actually released on Apr. 25, 2014.
> View INSPQ release Apr. 25, 2014 (in French)
> Download report: Les impacts sanitaires en lien avec les projets uranifères nord-côtiers , Institut national de santé publique du Québec, Septembre 2013 (2.5MB PDF - in French)
Activists establish "mining camp" in front of Québec National Assembly to call for moratorium on uranium mining:
The group Sept-Îles Sans Uranium , supported by the coalition Pour que le Québec ait meilleure mine , installed a fake mining camp in front of the Québec National Assembly to protest against the new mining law and call for a moratorium on uranium exploration and mining in the province for at least three years. The camp will last four days, while the parliamentary commission discusses proposed changes to the mining law.
(Radio Canada Aug. 16, 2010)
Québec declines uranium moratorium: In spite of 14,000 signatures on petitions, Québec concludes that a moratorium on uranium is "unjustified", in the Sept-Îles area, as well as in the whole province. (Le Soleil Mar. 20, 2010)
> See also: Lac Kachiwiss project
Municipalities oppose uranium mining in Mingan area:
Petition against uranium exploration in Mingan area:
The group "Minganie sans uranium" will present a petition with more than 900 signatures to the city council of Havre-Saint-Pierre Monday night (Nov. 7). The petition demands the council members to adopt a resolution opposing uranium exploration and mining. The other seven municipalities of the Mingan area have adopted such resolutions already.
(Radio Canada Nov. 7, 2011)
On Nov. 7, 2011, the city council of Havre-Saint-Pierre adopted a resolution against uranium exploration and mining. The group "Minganie sans uranium" now plans to ask the regional county municipality (MRC) of Minganie to take position against the uranium activities.
(Radio Canada Nov. 8, 2011)
In response to a complaint filed by citizens of the Côte-Nord area, the Ministry of Environment of Québec will send an inspector to the uranium exploration site near Baie-Johan-Beetz. The citizens fear an impact of the drilling operations on their drinking water resource.
(Le Soleil Jul. 13, 2011)
The municipality of Baie-Johan-Beetz and several others oppose any uranium mining in the Mingan area. Currently, Uracan Resources is exploring a site 10 km north of Baie-Johan-Beetz.
(Radio Canada Jan. 25, 2010)
, in Kangiqsualujjuaq on planning for Kuururjuaq Park.
Azimut Exploration Inc. , a Montreal-based firm with a uranium property near Kuururjuaq, strongly opposes any limits on mineral exploration or mining near the park. said the birthright organization has "very serious reservations" about plans for uranium mining near Kuururjuaq, which includes a scenic mineral-rich belt near the Torngat Mountains.
And the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society and the Kativik Regional Government (KRG) want to see a buffer zone as well as an expansion of the park's boundaries at Mont Nuvulialuk and around Tasikallak Bay.
These groups want the park's boundaries expanded by 1,800 sq km at the south and north ends to protect fossils and lakes near Tasikallak and unique land features near Nuvialuk that date back to the last ice age, including rocky ice fields and remnants of ancient shorelines.
(Nunatsiaq News Apr. 20, 2007)
, and a group of students.
(L'Écho de la Lièvre, June 20, 2006)
, announced summary results of a Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") completed by InnovExplo Inc. of Val d'Or, Québec for the Lavoie uranium-gold deposit located in the Otish Mountains region northeast of Chibougamau, Québec. Abitex has an earn-in Option and JV agreement to acquire a 50% interest in the Lavoie property from AREVA Resources Canada Inc. and SOQUEM Inc. Abitex is the operator during the option period and is solely responsible for all work programs and technical reports, including this PEA.
at Sept-Îles on Dec. 13, 2009.
(Radio Canada/Le Soleil Dec. 13, 2009)
is performing uranium exploration around Lac Kachiwiss some 20 km north of the city. (Le Soleil Jan. 27, 2009; Montreal Gazette Feb. 7, 2009)
Controversial Matoush uranium mine project acquired by Consolidated Uranium Inc.: On Aug. 19, 2021, Consolidated Uranium Inc. announced that it has closed the previously announced acquisition of a 100% undivided interest in the high-grade Matoush Uranium Project located in the Province of Québec, Canada.
Cree Nation of Eeyou Istchee affirms its continuing opposition to development of Matoush uranium mine project:
The Cree Nation of Eeyou Istchee has once again affirmed its firm opposition to any uranium mining development within its territory of Eeyou Istchee in Northern Québec. In a resolution passed on May 26, 2021, the Board/Council of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) /Cree Nation Government noted in particular that the Cree Nation remains opposed to any further development of the Matoush Uranium Project.
The Cree Nation's affirmation of its continuing opposition to uranium mining development arises in response to the recent public announcement by junior mining company International Consolidated Uranium of its acquisition of the Matoush Uranium Project. This project, which was previously pursued by Strateco Resources Inc., is located on the family hunting territory of the Cree Nation of Mistissini and at the crest of two major watersheds that bring water throughout Eeyou Istchee.
(Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) May 28, 2021)
Controversial Matoush uranium mine project to obtain new owner: On May 11, 2021, International Consolidated Uranium Inc. announced that it has entered into a definitive share purchase agreement) whereby CUR will acquire a 100%, undivided interest, in the high-grade Matoush Uranium Project located in the Province of Québec, Canada.
Supreme Court of Canada refuses to hear Strateco's appeal in lawsuit against Québec government over losses with Matoush uranium mine project:
In a decision released Oct. 15, the Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal by Strateco Resources, which sued over Québec's 2013 decision to stop a uranium project near the Cree community of Mistissini that didn't have local or Cree Nation government support.
(CBC Oct. 29, 2020)
> View: Supreme Court Decision Nº 39085 , Oct. 15, 2020
Strateco loses appeal in lawsuit against Québec government over losses with Matoush uranium mine project:
On Jan. 14, 2020, Strateco Resources Inc. announced that the three judges of the Québec Appeal Court have unanimously rejected the appeal of Strateco Resources inc. in a decision rendered on January 13, 2020. Strateco appealed on the reject of its $182,684,575 claim to the Québec Government for loss of its investment in the Matoush uranium project and an additional $10 million in punitive damages.
> Download: Court decision: Ressources Strateco inc. c. PG Québec , Jan. 13, 2020
The Cree Nation of Eeyou Istchee welcomed the Québec Court of Appeal's unanimous decision. The Court of Appeal held that in deciding whether or not to authorize the project, the Minister was not only permitted but required to consider the Cree Nation's position on the Matoush Project, which was located on the traditional family hunting grounds of the Cree Nation of Mistissini. (Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) Jan. 16, 2020)
Strateco loses lawsuit against Québec government over losses with Matoush uranium mine project:
Canadian uranium project developer Strateco Resources has suffered defeat in its litigation against the government of Québec, saying it is reviewing the 115-page judgment and assessing the possibility of appealing the decision.
Judge Denis Jacques rendered his decision on Wednesday (June 21) regarding the company's lawsuit against the attorney general of Québec, on behalf of the Québec provincial government, and the Minister of the Environment.
He rejected Strateco's claim of C$182.69 for the loss of its investment in the Matoush uranium project, in the Otish mountains about 275 km north of Chibougamau, as well as denying a further C$10-million in punitive damages.
Strateco was forced to halt the development of the Matoush project following the Québec government's refusal to issue a certificate of authorisation for the advanced exploration phase required to advance the project.
(Mining Weekly June 22, 2017)
Strateco Resources Inc. files for bankruptcy protection on losses with Matoush uranium mine project: Strateco Resources Inc. has received creditor protection from the Superior Court of Québec after First Nation opposition to its Matoush uranium project, located on reserve lands in the province's Otish mountains, had halted the company's flagship project dead in its tracks. The court had granted a stay of proceedings under the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) until July 9, which could be renewed thereafter. (Mining Weekly June 10, 2015)
Strateco claims CDN$ 190 million damages from Québec Government for losses with Matoush uranium mine project: On Dec. 11, 2014, Strateco Resources Inc. announced that it is claiming CA $189,987,663 from the Québec Government in a motion to institute proceedings filed with the Superior Court of Québec. Strateco is seeking damages for the loss of its investment in the Matoush project arising from the "wrongful actions" of the Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment and the Fight against Climate Change and the Québec Government.
Québec refuses permit for Matoush uranium exploration project:
On Nov. 11, 2013, Strateco Resources Inc. announced that on Friday (Nov. 8), Québec's Minister of Sustainable Development, the Environment, Wildlife and Parks notified Strateco Resources Inc. that his decision is to refuse to deliver the certificate of authorisation for the Matoush underground exploration phase.
On Dec. 5, 2013, Strateco Resources Inc. announced that it has filed a motion with the Québec Superior Court to annul Minister Blanchet's decision.
The Grand Council of the Crees announced the same day that they are to contest Strateco's latest move. (GCC Dec. 5, 2013)
The Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee), the Cree Regional Authority and the Cree Nation of Mistissini today (Dec. 20) filed a declaration of intervention in the legal proceedings recently commenced by Strateco Resources against the Québec Minister of the Environment. (GCC Dec. 20, 2013)
On June 12, 2014, Strateco Resources Inc. announced that it is shutting down its Matoush camp to minimize operating costs.
Superior Court refuses to order Québec government to fund Matoush uranium project during court proceedings: The James Bay Cree Nation welcomes the interim judgment of the Superior Court of Québec denying the request of Strateco Resources Inc. for a safeguard order in relation to the Matoush uranium project. Strateco had requested that the Court order the Québec Environment Minister to pay its monthly operating costs until the conclusion of the legal proceedings in which Strateco seeks to force the Minister to issue a permit for its Matoush advanced uranium exploration project. Strateco claimed that it was unable to pay the expenses necessary to maintain the viability of its Matoush project. It asserted that the Minister should be held responsible for these difficulties, as a result of the Minister's March 28 announcement of province-wide public hearings on the uranium industry in Québec. (The Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) Aug. 1, 2013)
Québec plans to refuse permit for Matoush uranium exploration project due to "a lack of sufficient social acceptability": Québec-based Strateco Resources on Tuesday (June 25) said Québec's Sustainable Development, Environment, Wildlife and Parks Minister Yves-Francois Blanchet, had served it with a notice indicating that he planned to "refuse to issue the permit for the Matoush underground exploration project" due to "a lack of sufficient social acceptability". The notice gave Strateco 60 days in which to appeal the minister's intended refusal to issue the requested permit. (Mining Weekly June 26, 2013)
Owner of Matoush uranium exploration project announces CDN$ 87 million impairment charge because of Québec's uranium moratorium: On May 15, 2013, Strateco Resources announced a CDN$ 87 million impairment charge from the delay of its Matoush project caused by Québec's moratorium on uranium development.
Strateco Resources takes legal action over impact of Québec uranium mining moratorium on Matoush exploration project:
> See here
Québec's moratorium on uranium development delays Matoush exploration project, no compensation planned:
> See here
Strateco Resources tries to have the requirement to obtain consent from the Cree for the Matoush exploration project lifted:
The company on Thursday (Jan. 17) has filed a motion with the Québec Superior Court. Among others, the motion attempts to invalidate a recommendation of the Provincial Review Committee ("COMEX"). This consulting authority recommended to the government to accept Strateco's project on some conditions, the first being to obtain written consent from the Cree.
(Radio Canada Jan. 18, 2013)
The Eeyou Istchee First Nation, represented by the Grand Council of the Crees, the Cree Regional Authority and the Cree Nation of Mistissini on Tuesday (Feb. 5) filed an intervention in the legal proceedings recently started by uranium project developer Strateco Resources against the Quebec Environment Minister.
In their intervention, the Crees sought full rights of participation in the proceedings, and urged the Court to dismiss Strateco's request.
(Mining Weekly Feb. 6, 2013)
Grand Council of the Crees releases secret review report on Matoush exploration project "to correct the misinformation circulated by Strateco":
On Oct. 19, 2012, the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) released the environmental review report concerning the Matoush uranium advanced exploration project, which was provided by the Review Committee under the James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement (COMEX) to the Québec Administrator in August 2011. To date, the Review Committee's report has not been made public, as the Québec Administrator has not yet issued a decision concerning the Matoush project.
On October 18, 2012, Guy Hébert, president of Strateco Resources Inc., the proponent of the Matoush project, reported to LesAffaires.com and La Presse that he had read the COMEX report, and that it was "unanimously favourable" towards the Matoush project. "This includes the Cree representatives on the committee", Mr. Hébert stated.
In reality, in its report, the Review Committee stated that it had "serious reservations" about the Matoush project. The Committee recommended that the Québec Administrator authorize the project only if the consent of the Crees has been obtained.
(Grand Council of the Crees Oct. 19, 2012)
> View GCC release Oct. 19, 2012
> Download COMEX: Environmental Review Report for the Matoush Uranium Exploration,
July 2011 (622k PDF)
Québec plans public inquiry into environmental impacts of uranium projects in the Province, delaying Matoush project:
> View here
James Bay Cree Nation disappointed at approval for underground exploration of Matoush project in spite of moratorium:
The James Bay Cree Nation has affirmed its commitment to the complete cessation of all uranium exploration, mining and waste emplacement in Eeyou Istchee, the James Bay Cree territory, notwithstanding today's decision of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) to license a uranium exploration project in Eeyou Istchee.
"We are not surprised, but a bit disappointed, that the CNSC has not recognized the Cree Nation moratorium with respect to this first proposed project," said Grand Chief Dr. Matthew Coon Come. "However we remain determined to protect our economies and way of life against the unique and grave threat posed by uranium mining and uranium waste. The Cree Nation will proceed with all necessary steps to ensure that our permanent uranium moratorium in Eeyou Istchee is recognized and implemented."
(James Bay Cree Nation Oct. 17, 2012)
Cree Nation of Mistissini disapproves CNSC licensing decision on underground exploration of Matoush uranium project:
The Cree Nation of Mistissini disapproves of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) decision regarding Strateco Resources uranium Project. With no surprise the Cree Nation of Mistissini learned of today's decision by the CNSC to approve Strateco's project and it clearly demonstrates that this government agency had not taken into account the social acceptability aspects of this project, which was clearly demonstrated by a great majority of members of the Cree Nation of Mistissini, when consulted.
"As with any uranium project, this type of development fundamentally contradicts with our traditional use of our territory. My people have thrived in Eeyou-Istchee in accordance with nature for millennia. Uranium projects will put at risk the environmental sustainability of this important part of the Province of Québec with the long lasting effects of radioactive waste and the uncertainty of being able to contain it for millions of years", said Chief Richard Shecapio.
(Cree Nation of Mistissini Oct. 17, 2012)
CNSC issues license for underground exploration of Matoush uranium deposit:
On Oct. 17, 2012, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced its decision to issue a licence to Strateco Resources Inc. authorizing the excavation of an exploration ramp and construction of surface buildings and facilities to support the Matoush Underground Exploration Project located in the Otish Basin, Québec.
> View CNSC release Oct. 17, 2012
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision (PDF)
Mistissini Cree Nation says "No" to uranium exploration and calls for a moratorium: The Chief of Cree Nation of Mistissini, Richard Shecapio, made it clear at the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission's (CNSC) public hearing, held today (June 5) in Mistissini, that his community is firmly against uranium development in Eeyou Istchee. "We want to put an end to the question of uranium development once and for all, right now. We know where this is going and we don't want any uranium mining at all", said Chief Shecapio. (Cree Nation of Mistissini June 5, 2012)
CNSC to hold public hearing on the proposed Matoush Exploration Project:
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will hold a one-day public hearing to consider Strateco Resources Inc. (Strateco) application for a licence to prepare site and construct for an underground exploration program at the Matoush Project, located approximately 260 kilometres north of Chibougamau, Québec.
Hearing Dates and Locations: June 5, 2012 - Mistissini; June 7, 2012 - Chibougamau
Requests to intervene must be filed by May 16, 2012 (deadline extended).
> Download Notice of Public Hearing, Apr. 5, 2012 (PDF)
> Download Revised Notice of Public Hearing, May 2, 2012 (PDF)
> Download Commission Member Document, April 4, 2012 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcripts: Mistissini, June 5, 2012 · Mistissini, June 6, 2012 · Chibougamau, June 7, 2012 (PDF)
> View archived Public Hearing Webcast - June 5-7, 2012 (available for a three-month period only!)
Mistissini Cree demand a pause for Matoush uranium exploration project and think of a moratorium:
The Chief of the Cree Nation of Mistissini , Richard Shecapio, urges the Federal government to pause Strateco's licensing process for the advanced exploration of uranium in the Otish Mountains, on Cree Territory. "We need to see real and concrete actions on the part of Strateco, in regard to information and consultation with the community. To this date, we are not satisfied with the way in which Strateco has been dealing with the issue of information sharing and consultation with the members of Mistissini. If nothing changes, we will reiterate our demand for a moratorium of advanced uranium exploration on our traditional territory", explains Chief Shecapio.
(Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) Feb. 2, 2012)
On Aug. 12, 2011, the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency invited the public to comment on the Comprehensive Study Report for the proposed Matoush Exploration Project.
Strateco Resources Inc. is proposing to construct an underground exploration ramp 260 kilometres north-east of Chibougamau in order to identify mineral resources with more precision and to determine the feasibility of a uranium mine.
Public comments received from August 15, 2011 to September 15, 2011 will be considered.
> Download related documents: Reference number 08-03-46115 (CEAA)
On Feb. 2, 2012, the Minister of the Environment determined that the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.
On July 29, 2011, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced that it will hold a closed hearing in July to consider the proposed Environmental Assessment Comprehensive Study Report (CSR) regarding Strateco Resources Inc.'s proposed Underground Uranium Exploration Project in Matoush, Québec.
> Download Notice of Hearing, July 29, 2011 (PDF)
On July 29, 2011, CNSC approved the Environmental Assessment Comprehensive Study Report.
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision, July 29, 2011 (PDF)
Federal review panel recommends approval of Matoush underground uranium exploration project despite missing social licence and a long list of inadequacies:
MiningWatch Canada is puzzled and concerned by a recently released federal environmental assessment report endorsing Strateco Resources Inc.'s proposed Matoush Uranium Exploration Project. The project is subject to environmental review by federal and provincial panels under the James Bay-Northern Québec Agreement (JBNQA) and by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. The recently-released report presents the analysis of the project by the federal review panel. Despite acknowledging that project does not have a social licence to proceed and identifying a long list inadequacies in the environmental assessment, the panel makes a finding that the exploration project is unlikely to have significant environmental effects and recommends approval of the project, albeit with a host of conditions.
(MiningWatch Canada July 28, 2011)
> View MiningWatch release July 28, 2011
> Download Matoush Federal Review Panel Documents (CEAA)
The Mistissini Cree nation opposes Strateco Resources' Matoush uranium exploration project on its territory. This was announced by Chief Richard Shecapio at a public hearing held on Nov. 23, 2010. The decision was taken after a meeting held in the community on Nov. 22, he said. Quoting in particular the longterm effects on the environment and the animals, he declared that the uranium exploration "stands in sharp contrast to the fundamental values of the Cree".
(La Presse Affaires Nov. 23, 2010)
On Nov. 25, 2010, the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) acknowledged and provided full support to the Cree Nation of Mistissini's decision to reject a proposal for a uranium exploration mine within their territory.
On July 19, 2010, the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (CEAA) announced the commencement of an Environmental Assessment for the Matoush Exploration Project.
[...] As a result of the January 21, 2010 Supreme Court of Canada ruling in MiningWatch Canada v. Canada (Minister of Fisheries and Oceans et al.), the project scope was modified and includes all physical activities associated with the excavation of an underground exploration ramp along with any related works, terrestrial and aerial access and other undertakings directly associated with the works such as burrow pits and temporary storage of contaminated soils. [...]
On July 12, 2010, a series of amendments to the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act came into force. The amendments require that the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission provide the public with the opportunity to comment on the Matoush Exploration Project and the conduct of the comprehensive study. [...]
The consultation period will end on August 19, 2010.
> Download Public Notice - Matoush Exploration Project, Public Comments Invited on the Project and Conduct of the Comprehensive Study , July 19, 2010 (PDF)
> View Matoush exploration project (CEAA)
The public is invited to review the Environmental and Social Impact Study submitted by Strateco Resources Inc., the proponent of the Matoush Uranium Exploration Project, located northeast of Mistissini and Chibougamau.
> Download Public Notice Jan. 4, 2010 (PDF)
> View Project agreement for the Matoush uranium exploration ramp access project in the province of Québec, Nov. 13, 2009 (Major Projects Management Office)
On Nov. 11, 2009, Strateco Resources Inc. announced that it has filed the Environmental Impact Study and all technical documentation concerning the application for the licence required to start the underground exploration work for the Matoush uranium project feasibility study. The main infrastructure of the project consists of a 2405 metre ramp, at a maximum depth of 300 metres.
The Environmental Impact Study can be consulted, starting November 16th, on the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency website.
> View CEAA Matoush Project sheet
> Download Environmental Impact Study Underground Exploration Program Matoush Property (Oct. 2009) (CEAA)
On Sep. 30, 2009, the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (CEAA) announced the availability of $40,000 under its Participant Funding Program to assist groups and individuals to take part in the environmental assessment of the Matoush Exploration Project, located 260 km northeast of Chibougamau, in the Province of Québec.
The proponent, Strateco Resource Inc., is proposing to develop an underground uranium exploration ramp and related surface infrastructure.
Funding applications received by the Agency by November 2, 2009 will be considered.
> View CEAA news release Sep. 30, 2009
> View CEAA public notice Sep. 30, 2009
> View CEAA reference page for Matoush Exploration Project, ref. no. 08-00-46115
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has received an application and a project proposal from Strateco Resources Inc., for the excavation of an underground exploration ramp, in order to conduct an advanced exploration phase for the development of its uranium mining project on the Matoush claim.
CNSC staff has determined that an EA is required to be conducted in order for this licensing action to occur.
> View Matoush Exploration Project, Chibougamau, Quebec (CNSC)
On Nov. 11, 2008, Strateco Resources Inc. announced that the Scoping Study on Matoush "Indicates Very Strong Economics".
> Calculate Mine Feasibility
On Nov. 5, 2008, Strateco Resources Inc. announced that the Licence Application for the Underground Exploration Program of the Matoush Uranium property was filed to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC). Strateco is proposing to develop an exploration ramp at the Matoush Project.
> Download licence application: Strateco · SEDAR (3.7M PDF)
, Aug. 15, 2024
(IAAC)
(68MB PDF)
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Newfoundland and Labrador:
Altius Minerals Corp.,
Kirrin Resources Inc. ,
Paladin Energy Ltd,
Commander Resources Ltd. ,
Jet Metal Corp.,
Monster Copper Corporation,
Pathfinder Resources Ltd. ,
Santoy Resources Ltd. ,
Aben Resources Inc. ,
Golden Valley Mines Ltd. ,
Uranium Mining Corporation plc. ,
Waseco Resources Inc. ,
Bayswater Uranium Corporation ,
Silver Spruce Resources Inc. ,
Landmark Minerals Inc. ,
Belmont Resources Inc. ,
Marvel Discovery Corp. ,
Denison Mines Corp.,
Freewest Resources Canada Inc. ,
Uranium Star Corp. ,
Ucore Rare Metals Inc. ,
Vulcan Minerals Inc. ,
Spruce Ridge Resources Ltd. ,
Cornerstone Capital Resources Inc. ,
Pitchblack Resources Ltd. ,
Running Fox Resource Corp. ,
Global Gold Uranium, LLC ,
New Island Resources Inc. ,
Newfoundland Goldbar Resources Inc. ,
Golden Cross Resources Ltd ,
Capella Resources Ltd. ,
Quest Rare Minerals Ltd. ,
High Tide Resources Inc.,
Alpha Uranium Resources Inc.,
Atikwa Minerals Corp. ,
Strategic Resources Inc. ,
Golden Dory Resources Ltd ,
Metals Creek Resources Corp. ,
Delta Uranium Inc. ,
JNR Resources Inc.,
Fieldex Exploration Inc. ,
Consolidated Uranium Inc.
Uranium mining in Labrador is opposed by Makkovik Uranium Committee.
is hoping to develop a uranium mine near the coastal Labrador community of Postville within the next decade.
The plan has divided people in Postville and nearby communities, with some embracing the prospect of high-paying jobs and others deeply worried about long-term environmental risks.
A motion, which is scheduled to go to second reading in the Nunatsiavut assembly in November, directs the self-government not to consent to a mine or mill on Inuit-owned lands.
(CBC Oct. 18, 2007)
Paladin restarts uranium exploration at Michelin project after seven-year hiatus: On Aug. 1, 2022, Paladin Energy Ltd. announced that exploration activity has re-commenced at Michelin "with activities focused on development pathways and regional exploration opportunities".
Paladin subsidiary halts uranium exploration in Labrador: Aurora Energy has announced it is suspending uranium exploration in Labrador and is blaming lower commodity prices for the decision. (CBC Sep. 1, 2015)
Canada issues exemption from foreign ownership policy for Paladin Energy's Michelin project:
On June 22, 2015, Canada's Minister of Natural Resources announced that the federal government has approved an application by Paladin Energy Ltd. for majority ownership of the proposed Michelin uranium mine in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Under the Non-Resident Ownership Policy in the Uranium Mining Sector (NROP), exemptions are permitted to the requirement for 51 percent resident ownership in cases where it can be clearly demonstrated that Canadian partners cannot be found. Paladin has demonstrated that there are no Canadian partners that would be interested in leading the development of the proposed Michelin mining project in the Central Mineral Belt of Labrador.
(Government of Canada June 22, 2015)
On Dec. 17, 2010, Fronteer Gold Inc. announced it has entered into an Asset Sale Agreement under which Paladin Energy Ltd. will acquire 100% of the uranium assets of Aurora Energy Resources Inc. , a wholly owned subsidiary of Fronteer Gold.
On February 1, 2011, Paladin completed the acquisition of the uranium assets of Aurora Energy Resources Inc. from Fronteer Gold Inc.
On Sep. 8, 2009, Fronteer Development Group Inc. announced a positive Preliminary Economic Assessment for the proposed Michelin Uranium Project.
> Calculate Mine Feasibility
On June 19, 2008, Aurora Energy Resources Inc. announced the creation of a new panel that "will give community representatives from coastal Labrador input into project planning and key environmental work". Aurora is currently seeking applications from coastal Labrador citizens who are interested in participating in the Michelin Project Community Panel. Deadline for applications is July 14, 2008.
Aboriginal groups living near a proposed uranium mine site in northern Labrador say they want more information about how the development will affect their communities.
The uranium deposits lie within land that is owned by Labrador Inuit.
Terry Rice, town manager in Makkovik, near where the mine will be located, said a land use plan for that area has yet to be worked out and the mine will have to come after that agreement is reached.
He thinks the company's plan to begin construction in three years is too optimistic.
Innu Nation President Daniel Ashini said the Innu need to be included in Aurora development plans, too, because the company is planning to build a service road to the mine that he said will go through Innu land.
(CBC Aug. 22, 2007)
On Aug. 20, 2007, Aurora Energy Resources Inc. announced that it has advanced its Michelin Project to the pre-feasibility stage.
Aurora anticipates formally registering the Michelin Project with the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency by the end of the year. Pending completion of the necessary regulatory approvals and a positive feasibility study, Aurora estimates it could begin mine construction as soon as 2010 and commence production in 2013.
in Labrador is hosting public meetings in Makkovik and Postville this week to hear from people who are concerned about a proposed uranium mine.
Aurora Energy Resources is test-drilling in several areas near the Labrador communities and company officials say they're close to deciding if a mine is feasible.
(CBC Apr. 10, 2007)
Aurora Energy Resources Inc. has been given approval to test-drill for uranium in a Labrador lake, but will need to have an environmental monitor in place.
The company plans to start its winter drilling program through ice at Melody Lake on March 15, 2007.
Previously, the Newfoundland and Labrador government had ruled that third-party monitoring at Melody Lake was not necessary.
Residents of nearby communities, as well as the watchdog group Mining Watch , had appealed for independent monitoring at the exploration site.
(Radio Canada Feb. 19, 2007)
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in New Brunswick:
Freewest Resources Canada Inc. ,
Cornerstone Capital Resources Inc. ,
Geodex Minerals Ltd. ,
CVRD Inco Limited ,
Capella Resources Ltd. ,
Quest Rare Minerals Ltd. ,
Sparton Resources Inc. (suspended)
Uranium mining in New Brunswick is opposed by Support Citizens Against Radioactive Emissions (SCARE NB),
Southeast Chapter of the Conservation Council of New Brunswick ,
Nuclear Free NB
, announced on Aug. 11, 2008, it would be suspending its New Brunswick uranium program.
"We can't do uranium now," said Sparton chairman Edward Thompson. "It's going to be suspended until the government changes its regulations."
(NB Business Journal Aug. 13, 2008)
The following companies are performing prospection and/or exploration "but not for uranium" in Nova Scotia:
Capella Resources Ltd. ,
Tripple Uranium Resources Inc.
Uranium mining in Nova Scotia is opposed by Citizens Action to Protect the Environment (CAPE) (Hants County), Citizens Allied to Ban Uranium Mining (CABUM).
Nova Scotia has had a moratorium on uranium exploration and mining since 1982. If a company finds uranium in concentrations greater than 100 parts per million, it must report those results and stop digging. (The Daily News Jan. 3, 2008)
| HOME WISE Uranium Project > Mining & Milling > Issues > New Uranium Mining Projects - North America > |
