My visit to the Inuit Village of Kangiqsualujjuaq

Originally shared in this LinkedIn post.

I take pride in my role within the mining sector, as we strive to develop the essential resources required for our advanced technological present and future. The approach we adopt in Canada distinguishes itself from practices in other countries I have experienced.

I recently had the opportunity to visit the Inuit Village of Kangiqsualujjuaq to engage in discussions about the proposed Torngat Metals Strange Lake Rare Earth Elements mine. Our group of experts came from across the country to talk about the mine plan, but also to explain Canadian mining process, regulations, and how these are being integrated into the mine plan with emerging best practices.

The people were warm and welcoming. We shared caribou stew, bannock, and char soup. The community members rightfully had many questions about the project, and in addition to the meetings held in the gym with an Inuktitut translator, they arranged a broadcast of the discussions through the local radio to expand the reach of the information.

Currently, we are advancing through the pre-feasibility study (PFS) stage of mine planning. It is essential to maintain ongoing dialogue throughout the mine's lifecycle—from planning to post-closure. Engaging local communities at these early stages is crucial for developing a mine planning and closure vision that incorporates the input of local stakeholders, thereby fostering the most successful projects possible.

Thank you to the people of Kangiqsualujjuaq for your engagement. By sharing your questions and concerns, you help to make the project even better.