November 29, 1996
(Executive Council)

Premier pleased decision made on smelter/refinery

Premier Brian Tobin said today he is very pleased that the Voisey's Bay Nickel Company has made its decision on a preferred location for a smelter/refinery complex in the province.

"Almost a year ago we took the position that the smelter/refinery complex must be built in the province in order to secure the employment and economic benefits for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador," said Premier Tobin. "Government has been firm on this point and I am pleased to know that these jobs and benefits have been secured."

The smelter/refinery in Argentia will be one of the largest, most environmentally-friendly facilities of its kind in the world. Voisey's Bay Nickel Company has assured government that the facility will employ the most up-to-date smelting and refining technology, not only for nickel, but also for cobalt.

The smelter/refinery complex, together with the mine and mine/mill in Labrador, will generate more than 3,500 new jobs for the province. The project is expected to create numerous spinoff benefits. "I am pleased that the company is establishing its procurement and operations office for the mine/mill in Happy Valley-Goose Bay in the new year," said the premier. "It is a solid example of the benefits that will come from this project. Along with Hibernia, Terra Nova and the Hibernia Transshipment facility, we are creating a critical mass of industrial infrastructure in this province, infrastructure that will allow us to expand our industrial base and attract new manufacturing and service enterprises," he said.

Contact: Cathy Dornan, (709) 729-3570.