Toronto-listed First Mining has received construction permits for a temporary winter road to the Springpole gold project exploration camp site, which will allow for the safe transport of supplies and people overland.
The permits allow for the construction of an 18 km temporary winter road from the existing Wenasaga forestry road to the exploration camp.
First Mining requested the authorisation early in 2023 after reviewing exploration camp re-supply options that would significantly reduce the risks to employees, contractors and the environment.
However, in February 21, 2023, First Mining received notice from litigation counsel to Cat Lake First Nation (CLFN) that it intends to challenge the permits issued to First Mining.
The lawyers for First Mining, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) and CLFN met on February 23, for a scheduling hearing at which the judge issued an interim order staying the authorisation of MNRF, pausing the temporary winter road construction activities.
"Warm winter conditions are impacting all who live and operate in the north," stated First Mining CEO Dan Wilton. "This temporary winter road will allow First Mining to keep its focus on operating in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.
“While it is disappointing that CLFN has chosen to oppose these important, temporary safety activities, First Mining continues to listen to the concerns of Indigenous communities and is always willing to meet with community leaders to discuss these and any other matters regarding our activities in their traditional territories,” he said.