THUNDER BAY – Mining – Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines, issued the following statement on Cliffs Natural Resources’ decision to suspend indefinitely its Chromite Project in Northern Ontario:
“Our government is committed to smart, sustainable, and collaborative development in the Ring of Fire and this development is about more than one company.
It is a multi-generational economic opportunity for this province with known mineral potential worth $60 billion and represents one of the largest known deposits in the world.
The Ring of Fire also presents an unprecedented opportunity for job creation with long-term benefits for communities in the North and the entire province.
While I am disappointed with Cliffs’ decision, and certainly appreciate the company’s continued interest in the project, our commitment is clear. The province is prepared to invest in vital infrastructure and create the right climate to support development in the region. We will work with key partners to realize these shared benefits.
There is no question this is a significant project that requires partners to come to the table. The private sector, First Nations, the federal government as well as the province all have a stake and a role to play.
Our role is clear. We will work in the best interest of Ontarians and that means we need to get it right.
We are bringing partners together through a development corporation to drive infrastructure forward. We are continuing our historic community driven process with Chiefs of the Matawa Tribal Council to address regional considerations. We continue to make key investments to ensure full participation by all communities in the economic benefits.
This work is necessary to realize the full potential of this region and this work will continue to ensure the opportunity is realized for the benefit of all.”
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