MARATHON -- The 30-day environment hearing on the impact that the proposed Generations mining palladium and copper mine is well into its second week.
The 30-day public hearing, began 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”.
The hearing is being overseen by an independent panel of three experts who have been appointed by the Federal and Provincial government.
Since the onset of this project, Mayor Dumas has maintained that, throughout frequent discussions with key partners and individuals, and in keeping a close relationship with them, he recognizes the importance of having an opportunity to debate and talk about the environmental impact of such a huge mining project. He describes this focus as, “the least amount of impact, with the greatest amounts of economic benefit, like job creation”.
Cost of the project which is said to create 375 jobs, is estimated at $665 million. If approved Generations Mining will establish three open pits near Marathon Airport. The mine is expected to span over a 13 year mine life.
Final comments by the mayor, points out that in his view Generations has been a great working partner. He looks forward to the process over the next 30 days as the panel will have an opportunity to continue discussion and debate. 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”.
