Supporting a Strong Future in Labrador West

Premier on the Ground in Wabush to Meet with Officials on Idling of Scully Iron Ore Mine

Today, the Honourable Tom Marshall, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, was in Wabush to meet with union, town and other officials following the announcement that Cliffs Natural Resources intends to idle its mining and processing operations at the Wabush Scully Iron Ore Mine.

“This is a very difficult time for the workers, their families, and all residents of the Labrador West region. For almost 50 years, the Wabush mine has been an anchor employer for the town and a significant contributor to both the local and provincial economies. Our government will stand with the town and the people of Wabush in the days, weeks and months ahead as we look together to the future of this region and all of Labrador.”
- The Honourable Tom Marshall, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

Premier Marshall was joined by the Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Natural Resources, and the Honourable Nick McGrath, Minister Responsible for Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs.

“The Provincial Government will work to ensure Cliffs Natural Resources meets its obligations to workers, to the town, and to the province. In addition, we will provide workers and others impacted with ready access to programs and services to assist them in making the most of opportunities in the province for skilled workers in the natural resources industry. We will continue to foster a positive business environment to enable growth in the region’s mining industry.”
- The Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Natural Resources

The Wabush Scully Iron Ore Mine is a major employer in the region, second only to the Iron Ore Company of Canada. The mining and processing operation employs approximately 450 individuals.

“Our government has a track record of supporting the people and families of Labrador West and all of Labrador. We will continue to work with our community partners to leverage the rich assets that the region offers and bring new opportunities to the area. We will stand by the impacted workers and their families to ensure they receive the necessary supports to transition through this period.”
- The Honourable Nick McGrath, Minister Responsible for Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to supporting important social programs, strong communities and the health and well-being of children, families and seniors.

QUICK FACTS

• The Premier and Ministers are in Wabush to meet with union, town and other officials on the decision by Cliffs Natural Resources to idle the Wabush Scully Iron Ore Mine.
• The Provincial Government will work to ensure Cliffs Natural Resources meets its obligations to workers, to the municipality and to the province.
• The Provincial Government will provide workers with ready access to applicable programs and services to assist them during this time of transition.

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2014 02 13                                 3:00 p.m.