Rouyn, Lac mining gold at Francoeur

Production at a rate of 450 tons per day has officially begun at the Francoeur gold mine, near Rouyn Que., equal partners Rouyn Mining Resources (TSE) and Lac Minerals (TSE) say.

For the first six months of operations this year, the mine is expected to produce 18,000 oz of gold, rising to 44,000 oz next year and 58,000 oz in 1990.

The mill feed is being supplied from levels above the 11th which are accessible via the original No 6 shaft. A second shaft, being sunk to a depth of 2,600 ft, is expected to be completed by the end of 1989. This shaft is required to access the bulk of the property’s probable and possible reserves which total three million tons grading 0.2 oz gold per ton.

A study is also in progress which will examine the feasibility of building a 1,200-ton-per- day mill. If approved, the mill will be constructed on the site of the former producing Wasamac gold mine, which is located a short drive from the Francoeur mine.