Province assessing Atlantic Mining's submission for cleanup of former gold mine site
Statement from company says documents were submitted to Natural Resources Department on Sept. 27
Provincial government officials are currently reviewing a submission from Atlantic Mining, detailing how the company plans to cover the remaining costs for reclamation work at a former gold mine.
In a statement, Atlantic Mining confirmed that the documents were submitted to the Department of Natural Resources on Sept. 27, following financial arrangements between the company and its parent firm, St Barbara.
"This reclamation security bond highlights Atlantic Mining's dedication to sustainable and responsible mining practices," the company stated.
To date, Atlantic Mining has paid $41.2 million to the province toward the reclamation of the Touquoy gold mine in Moose River, N.S. The remaining $38.7 million was initially due on Sept. 3, but an extension was granted until the end of September.
On Thursday, Environment Minister Tim Halman informed reporters that officials from his department, Natural Resources, and a Justice Department lawyer are now assessing the company's proposal.
"It's a substantial legal document that we've received," Halman said after a cabinet meeting in Halifax. "We must ensure we thoroughly review everything it contains."
One reason for the extension request was the company’s concern that the government had not yet agreed to a progressive release of the bond. Atlantic Mining is seeking compensation as the reclamation work progresses.
Halman noted that discussions with the company on this request are ongoing.
According to the company's statement, $7 million has already been spent on reclamation efforts, which include "major civil works, rehabilitation of available work areas, and water quality modeling."
