NLIS 1 August 20, 2001 (Mines and Energy)
Mines and Energy Minister Lloyd Matthews announced today that Denison
Environmental Services/Innova Quest Inc., a joint venture partnership, has
been chosen as the project manager to oversee the reclamation of the former
Hope Brook Mine site in southwestern Newfoundland. Six proposals were submitted to the department in November. Proposals
were evaluated based upon sound technical analysis and overall cost. "The new project manager has been involved in the reclamation of
other mine sites in Canada and through this work has demonstrated the
fundamentals required for an effective and timely clean-up of the Hope Brook
site," said Mr. Matthews. "The project team members have the
experience and expertise needed to ensure the site is decommissioned and
rehabilitated in a professional and efficient manner." Minister Matthews said that he is pleased to see this project move
forward, ensuring the natural environment will be restored. "The
project manager will assume responsibility for managing the clean-up of the
site as of September 1, 2001." The cost of the project manager is estimated to be approximately $2
million and will involve the management of the reclamation activities for a
period of 30 months. Minister Matthews noted, "New regulations established in the Mining
Act (2000) now ensure that mining companies have financial assurances for
site clean-up in place before operating a new mine in the province. This
will guarantee that funds will be available for rehabilitation once a mine
has shut down." The Hope Brook Gold Mine operated from 1987 to 1997. In 1999, Royal Oak
Mines Inc., the owner of the site, entered into receivership. Ownership of
the site was subsequently transferred to the Government of Newfoundland and
Labrador by the Ontario Superior Court on December 13, 1999. Media contact: Tara Laing, Communications, (709) 729-4890 2001 08 20
12:00 p.m.
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