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Environmental hearing on proposed palladium-copper mine enters third week

Comments on Generation Mining's planned Marathon-area project are being accepted until April 14
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Marathon Mayor Rick Dumas

MARATHON — The 30-day environmental hearing weighing the impact of Generation Mining's proposed palladium and copper mine is entering its third week.

The 30-day public hearing began March 14, 2022. Its goal is to provide a forum for all partners involved in the project, including residents, to voice their views and opinions not only on the project itself, but specifically regarding the Joint Review Panel’s report on the project's environmental impact.

“We know from talking with Generation, the panel members, and First Nations neighbours that there is a lot of support for this mine," Marathon Mayor Rick Dumas said.

“The fact that this mine is going to produce palladium, platinum and the copper process as well, will be beneficial for the manufacturing of electric vehicles, palladium for ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles, which is the internal combustion of the vehicle, will help with emissions and control the environmental impact."

The hearing is being overseen by an independent panel of three experts who have been appointed by the federal and provincial governments.

Since the onset of this project, Dumas has maintained that, throughout frequent discussions with key partners and individuals, and in keeping a close relationship with them, he recognizes the importance of having an opportunity to debate and talk about the environmental impact of such a huge mining project.

He describes this focus as “the least amount of impact with the greatest amounts of economic benefit, like job creation."

The cost of the project, which is anticipated to create 375 jobs, is estimated at $665 million. If approved, Generation Mining will establish three open pits near the Marathon Airport. The mine is expected to operate for 13 years.

Dumas said that, in his view, Generation has been a great working partner, and he said he looks forward to the process over the next 30 days as the panel will have an opportunity to continue discussion and debate.

“All the info has been provided, and hopefully the panel will give an answer quicker than the 90 days that they have been given to write the report on this actual inherit process," he said, expressing confidence the project will be approved.

Dumas said he believes the investment by Generation in the project and the community “shows that they truly believe in this project, and I’m pleased to have this relationship with them."

— TBNewswatch