FREDERICTON (GNB) – The provincial government has issued an environmental impact assessment (EIA) approval to Sisson Mines Ltd. for their project near Fredericton. The approval is subject to 40 conditions to protect the environment.
“The environmental impact assessment process is an important step in ensuring a responsible balance between resource development and environmental protection,” said Environment and Local Government Minister Brian Kenny. “Our approval of this project follows a robust review and consultation. The assessment has been thorough, open and represents proactive and preventative planning.”
The project would include a molybdenum and tungsten open-pit mine and an ore-processing facility. The site contains enough resources to operate a mine for about 27 years. The project is expected to create 500 jobs during construction and 300 permanent jobs during operation.
In accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation of the Clean Environment Act, the review concluded that the mitigating measures identified during the process, along with the conditions outlined in the approval, will mitigate all potentially significant adverse environmental impact.
“Approval of this project is subject to 40 conditions; each one an important component in preserving the integrity of the environment,” said Kenny. “Our government made a commitment to ensuring clean air and water and a safe environment. We feel confident the project can uphold these commitments while generating much-needed employment.”
The approval includes conditions to ensure the protection of environmental components such as water quality and quantity, fish habitat, wetlands and archaeological resources. It also ensures that appropriate ongoing monitoring and emergency response plans will be in place throughout the life of the project.
Terms and conditions of the approval may be viewed at the Department of Environment and Local Government’s website or obtained by calling the Environmental Assessment Section of the department at 506-444-5382.
03-12-15