Government comments on status of Voisey�s Bay discussions

Mines and Energy Minister Paul Dicks stated today that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is not engaged in formal discussions with Inco regarding the development of the Voisey�s Bay Project in Labrador.

"No talks have taken place since January of this year and no new talks are scheduled," said Minister Dicks.

The minister noted that while a channel of communication has remained open with the company, there have been no discussions on the elements of an agreement that would permit the project to proceed.

The minister further stated that the provincial government shares the company�s view that Voisey�s Bay is a world-class deposit and that it will be developed sooner rather than later.

"Government remains committed to ensuring that the development of the Voisey�s Bay Project yields full and fair benefits for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador and is prepared to meet with Inco officials at such time as they are able to adequately address the province�s requirements," said Minister Dicks.

Media contact: Gary Callahan, Communications, (709) 729-4890.

2000 09 12 4:30 p.m.