The federal government will invest up to $150 million to help Aboriginals take advantage of opportunities created by the startup of the Voisey’s Bay nickel mine in northern Labrador. The money will go toward research and development, technology and training.
Toronto-based Inco and the government of Newfoundland recently negotiated an agreement for a mining lease (see page 1). The project involves mine development, as well as construction of a hydrometallurgical processing plant on the Avalon Peninsula. Meanwhile, Inco has reached tentative agreements on impacts and benefits with the Labrador Inuit Association and the Innu Nation.
A variety of existing programs will provide funding for training and business development.
“Human Resources Development Canada’s contributions will help to equip Aboriginal people with the skills they need to fully participate in this project,” says Human Resources Minister Jane Stewart. “This is an important part of the government’s skills and learning agenda.”
Construction is to begin this summer, with the first nickel concentrate production slated for 2005-2006. Some of the concentrate will be processed at Inco’s operations in Sudbury and Thompson, Man.
Inco acquired ownership of the deposit in 1996 when it bought out Diamond Fields Resources.
Meanwhile, Inco has applied for a repayable investment under the Technology Partnerships Canada program to support research and development of its hydrometallurgical technology.
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