July 30, 2015 — Ottawa — Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency
The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency and Minister for the Arctic Council, announced today that the proposed Brucejack Gold Mine Project, located approximately 65 kilometres north of Stewart, British Columbia, is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.
The Minister issued a Project Recommendation that includes a determination regarding the potential effects of the Project under the Nisga'a Final Agreement (NFA), which is a modern treaty signed by the governments of Canada, British Columbia and the Nisga'a Nation.
In reaching her environmental assessment decision, the Minister considered the Project Recommendation and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency's (the Agency's) Environmental Assessment Report. The Report includes the Agency's conclusions and recommendations on the potential environmental effects of the project, the proposed mitigation measures, the significance of any remaining adverse environmental effects, and the follow-up program.
In her environmental assessment Decision Statement, the Minister has set out legally binding conditions, which include mitigation measures and follow-up requirements, which must be fulfilled by the proponent throughout the life of the project.
As part of the strengthened and modernized Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 put in place to support the government's Responsible Resource Development Initiative, the Agency conducted a federal environmental assessment of this project using a science-based approach.
As the project proceeds to the next phase, it will continue to be subject to Canada's strong environmental laws, rigorous enforcement and follow-up, and fines for non-compliance.
Ted Laking
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441
Karen Fish
Communications Advisor
Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency
613-957-0278
Karen.Fish@ceaa-acee.gc.ca
Follow us on Twitter: @CEAA_ACEE
