PBCN Chief Karen Bird and Executive Chairman and CEO Dan Myerson signing the Collaboration Agreement (CNW Group/Foran Mining Corporation)

By Susan McNeil

Mining

Green means go for copper/zinc mine near Creighton

Aug 2, 2023 | 4:13 PM

A proposed copper and zinc mine in northeast Saskatchewan has been given an initial green light with the approval of its environmental assessment, says the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, whose traditional lands will hold the mine.

PBCN has been negotiating with the province and Foran Mining, which will own and operate the mine, to have it go ahead in a responsible way.

“We are pleased that the minister of environment thoughtfully considered PBCN’s concerns and recommendations captured during detailed consultation and negotiations” said PBCN Executive Director, Ben Merasty.

Conditions are attached, however, when it comes to treated water and there are still more approvals needed before any firm decisions are made.

According to Foran’s website, the area contains over a billion pound of copper, 1.9 billion pound of zinc, 510,000 ounces of gold and 18 million ounces of silver.

Helping hand

2025 TeleMiracle telethon raises $5.7 million

1h ago

Onto the playoffs

Northern Bears close out regular season with weekend split on the road

1h ago

Escaped prisoner

Sask. RCMP looking for escapee from Willow Cree Healing Lodge Saturday

6h ago

Foran estimates that in the first 18 years of the life of the mine, it will produce 65 million pounds of copper.

The McIlvenna Bay property is west of Flin Flon and Creighton with access coming from the Hanson Lake Road.

PBCN says the band will remain actively involved the future discussions of the plan with the goal of protecting the environment and the well-being of its members.

“Our Creator granted us the inherent right to determine our own destiny. Part of realizing our destiny is restoring prosperity to our people. This regulatory decision ensures that our members can develop an economic base which provides prosperity and self-reliance while ensuring responsible stewardship of the land and the wellbeing of PBCN members” said PBCN Chief, Karen Bird.

Several weeks ago, Foran and PBCN announced a economic partnership.

This screenshot from Foran Mining’s website shows the location of the planned mine.

—

susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com