Review promised of Windy Craggy

British Columbias ombudsman has promised to review the process that led to the provincial governments decision to create a park in the northwestern area known as Haines Triangle.

Last year, Premier Michael Harcourt announced plans to create a park in the Tatshenshini-Alsek basin. The government then expropriated claims held by over 20 companies or individuals, the most advanced being the Windy Craggy copper deposit held by Geddes Resources (TSE).

Jack Patterson, managing director of the British Columbia & Yukon Chamber of Mines, was invited to meet a senior officer of the ombudsman in mid-January to discuss issues of concern related to the park designation. We feel the government abandoned the legal review process that determines whether or not a mine project can go ahead in this province, Patterson said. This was a political decision that not only ignored the concerns of the industry, but also the concerns of several native groups.

The Champagne and Aishihik First Nations are continuing negotiations with the government for a comprehensive land claim settlement in the Tatshenshini region. Chief Paul Birckel said a framework agreement has been tabled and progress is being made.

Birckel said the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations had always wanted a voice in the planning and management of the Tatshenshini region. We are not necessarily against mining or for a park, Birckel said. But we were never contacted by Geddes Resources, at least before the takeover by Royal Oak, to address our concerns about the impact of mining on fish habitat.

The government is also expected to begin discussions with the holders of mineral claims in the region. So far, none has been compensated, although negotiations are expected to begin early this year.

The issue of compensation will be closely watched by the industry, in view of the lengthy court battle whereby Cream Silver Mines (VSE) was denied any compensation for its expropriated claims on Vancouver Island. When the B.C. government expropriated the companys Vancouver Island claims and those of other companies within the redefined Strathcona Park boundaries, it advised that fair and just compensation would be offered, said Cream Silver President Frank Lang. This promise can now be added to the multitude of broken promises our politicians offer. This kind of decision-making only adds to the mass exodus of mining finance to South America and other regions of the world which have more interest in creating jobs and strengthening their economies.