The 30-day public hearing began March 14, 2022.
MARATHON — The 30-day environment hearing about the potential impact of the Generations mining palladium or copper mine is well into its second day.
The 30-day public hearing began on March 14, 2022. Its goal is to provide a forum for all partners involved in this project, including residents, to voice their views and opinions not only on the project itself, but specifically, regarding the Joint Review Panel’s report on the environment impact of such a project.
Marathon Mayor Rick Dumas fully believes that, “We know from talking with Generations, the panel members, and First Nations neighbours that there is a lot of support for this mine”. He described how the Ontario and Federal government of Canada recognizes the “Green Metals” portion of the mine. “The fact that this mine is going to produce palladium, platinum and, the copper process as well, will be beneficial for the manufacturing of electric vehicles, palladium for ice vehicles which is internal combustion of the vehicle, will help with emissions and control the environmental impact”.
An independent panel consisting of three experts appointed by the Federal or Provincial governments will oversee the hearing.
Mayor Dumas maintained that since the start of the project, through frequent conversations with key partners and individuals and in maintaining a close relation with them, he has recognized the importance of having the opportunity to discuss and talk about the environmental effects of such a large-scale mining project. He describes this focus as, “the least amount of impact, with the greatest amounts of economic benefit, like job creation”.
The project, which is expected to create 375 jobs in the region, will cost $665 million. Generations Mining will set up three open pits close to Marathon Airport if it is approved. The mine is expected have a 13-year life span.
Mayor’s final comments, which he says that Generations has been a great partnership. He is looking forward to the next 30 day process as the panel will have the chance to continue discussion. Dumas stated that, “All the info has been provided, and hopefully the Panel will give an answer quicker than the 90 days that they have been given to write the report on this actual inherit process”.
He remains confident that this project will be approved and that the investment by Generations Mining (GenPGM), in this project and this community, “shows that they truly believe in this project and I’m pleased to have this relationship with them”.