robert-1
10 years ago
KWG Announces Proposed Chromium Intellectual Property Acquisition
posted on Apr 21, 14 11:39AM Use the IP Check tool [?]
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(April 21, 2014) - KWG Resources Inc. (TSX VENTURE:KWG) ("KWG") today announces that it has entered into an agreement to acquire fifty-percent of the ownership rights in two United States provisional patent applications (which include a fifty-percent interest in any of the vendor's associated intellectual property) (the "Chromium IP") relating to the production of chromium iron alloys directly from chromite ore, and the production of low carbon chromium iron alloys directly from chromite concentrates (the "Chromium IP Transaction"). The Chromium IP Transaction includes the right to use these provisional patent applications as the basis for filing additional patent applications in the United States, Canada and elsewhere worldwide.
The parties' interests in the Chromium IP will be held through a limited partnership (the "LP") established by the vendor and KWG for purposes of completing the Chromium IP Transaction and developing and exploiting the Chromium IP. The limited partners of the LP will be a wholly-owned subsidiary of KWG and a corporation beneficially owned by the vendor. The general partner of the LP, which will manage the business of the LP, will be another wholly-owned subsidiary of KWG.
The vendor has agreed to assign its fifty-percent interest in the Chromium IP (to be held by the LP) in exchange for 25 million units of KWG (each, a "Unit"), with each Unit comprising one common share of KWG and one common share purchase warrant of KWG exercisable at a price of $0.10 for 5 years from closing date of the Chromium IP Transaction.
KWG will have the option to acquire a further 25% interest in the Chromium IP from the vendor (held through the LP) in exchange for the issuance of an additional 12.5 million Units to the vendor at any time within one year from closing (the "First Option"). If the First Option is exercised, KWG will have an additional option to acquire the vendor's remaining 25% interest in the Chromium IP (held through the LP) in exchange for the issuance of a further 12.5 million Units to the vendor at any time within one year after the exercise of the First Option (the "Second Option"), thereby acquiring 100% of the LP.
In November 2013, KWG announced that it was very encouraged with the results of ongoing metallurgical test work to determine the thermodynamics of metalizing the chromite from the Black Horse deposit that forms part of KWG's Koper Lake Project by its reduction with natural gas.
The closing of the Chromium IP Transaction is subject to acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange. The company has also applied for TSX Venture Exchange acceptance of a further flow-through private placement of 2.2 million units for total proceeds of $220,000. Each unit comprises one flow-through treasury share and one warrant which may be exercised to acquire a further flow-through share for $0.15 at any time within twelve months. All securities issued are subject to a four-month hold period.
About KWG: KWG has a 30% interest in the Big Daddy chromite deposit and the right to earn 80% of the Black Horse chromite where resources are being defined. KWG also owns 100% of Canada Chrome Corporation which has staked claims and conducted a $15 million surveying and soil testing program for the engineering and construction of a railroad to the Ring of Fire from Exton, Ontario.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
----------------------------------------------------------
Doing this patent deal means that frank fully intends to have chrome smelting in kwg or bulk kwg up for whomever buys out kwg to do gas smelting. Not to mention any other companies that will want to use the method or hire kwg to do it for them saving huge costs. Also where is the updated 43-101 from all the completed drillings. Where is the deloitte study proving kwg rail method. We need that before the governments make definative announcemets or why bother hiring them. Where are the answers to the joint ramp study between not and kwg. Why hasn't Mick Davis said where he is investing his billions that he said he would announce somewhere around february but hasn't yet? He started glencore/estrata and built his buisnes at first with chromite gaining about 70 to 75 percent of the world buisness. He now took all his expert team and started X2 resources and has billions to start to invest in acquisitions. Will glencore or any other chromite company want to lose thier buisness to kwg new cheaper processing? How does one go about insuring that you can't be left out in the cold by having a lesser bid for kwg when the time comes? Maybe by allready having enough shares that nobody can take it private without you having use of the patent. The perfect marriage, the huge ore body in a legal friendly country that insures your profit does not get interupted while building a buisness(nationalization or supertaxing) and a game changing processing that outcompetes all other competitors. Can't do one without the other. Some of this is pure speculation but oohhh what exciting times.
robert-1
10 years ago
Ring of Fire News – April 3, 2014
?“Ring of Fire-focused project proponent KWG Resources on Wednesday said that more laboratory tests on reducing chromite ore from its Black Horse deposit using natural gas had been completed and provided “substantial encouragement” that the newly developed method might be used to convert the Black Horse chromite into a metallised chrome and iron alloy. During these tests by Glencore affiliate XPS Consulting & Testwork Services, the chromite, blended with suitable solid carbon as reductant, was reduced in the solid state at atmospheric pressure, using reformed natural gas, to produce the alloy. Reactions started at 900 °C when a suitable accelerant was used to enhance the reactions – a substantially lower temperature than is usual for chromite ores. The time required for the reductants to convert the oxide ore to alloy was also found to be substantially less than one hour – much faster than what established direct reduction methods have produced. Based on these tests only, preliminary estimates provided in a report indicated that “very substantial” energy savings could be achieved ….” – Company news release
?One analyst’s take “The Ontario government and Matawa First Nations have reached a negotiation framework agreement to discuss how to develop the world-class Ring of Fire mineral belt in Northern Ontario where Cliffs Natural Resources owns huge deposits of chromite. The company has been unable to develop its assets here owing to lack of agreement among stakeholders on key issues related to environment, revenue sharing, community infrastructure, etc. Also, the region is totally isolated from the rest of the country and needs massive investment to develop connecting transportation infrastructure. This itself has been the subject of an acrimonious court battle between Cliffs and KWG Resources, which controls the land where the key transportation route lies. Therefore, while an agreement on a common framework is definitely a good first step, it is still going to take a lot of time to negotiate and agree to specific terms and conditions. This means that Cliffs’ investors will do good not to get their hopes up for now. The Black Thor project, right now in the suspended state, is unlikely to be revived any time soon ….”
?A VERY optimistic assessment of a recent agreement “Mutual co-operation, solid funding will open up resource-rich region within weeks …. In an unprecedented display of support for resource development, a committee representing all stakeholders in Ontario’s Ring of Fire today announced an accord to open the region to mining immediately. “All the agreements are in place, along with investment and funding, permitting and legislation, as well as a solid plan to build infrastructure,” said Michael Gravelle, Ontario’s minister of Northern Development and Mines. “Work has started already.” Proposals to develop the remote region have proved vexatious to approximately 15 federal and provincial ministries, several aboriginal communities and over 20 mining and exploration companies. Some observers wondered whether there could ever be any consensus if industry representatives themselves couldn’t come to terms. Amazingly, they did. And they brought along each and every other stakeholder. How were such seemingly insurmountable obstacles overcome with such astonishing speed? “Nothing’s insurmountable when people work together,” Gravelle replied. “All we did was utilize the best resource known to this planet—mutual goodwill.” ….”
?“Engaging with the growing aboriginal talent pool is increasingly critical for those operating in Canada, Noront Resources VP for human resources Leanne Hall told members of the Canadian Institute of Mining’s Management and Economics Society on March 26. “There are around 1 200 aboriginal communities in Canada currently located within 200 km of mineral properties. It’s estimated 60% of mining activity in Canada happens on aboriginal lands,” she said. “Aboriginal Canadians are the most accessible source of talent closest to our projects, so it makes sense to look to them for developing a workforce.” Noront is developing its flagship Eagle’s Nest project in the Ring of Fire region, in northern Ontario, which it hopes to bring into commercial production in 2017. The project has just over 11.13-million tonnes proven and probable reserves grading 1.68% nickel, 0.87% copper, 0.89 g/t platinum and 3.09 g/t palladium. Aboriginal people also represent one of the fastest-growing demographics in Canada. “Currently there are 652 000 aboriginal people in Canada of working age. By 2020, another 400 000 aboriginal youth will come on stream. So there will be a million aboriginal people available for work,” she said ….”
?Think tank: time to provide First Nations with “private ownenrship of mineral rights”? “Canada could improve its attractiveness for mining investment by allowing private ownership of mineral rights, particularly if mineral rights were given to First Nations, finds a new study released today by the Fraser Institute, an independent, non-partisan Canadian public policy think-tank. “Mining development in Canada is fraught with uncertainty related to First Nations land claims and requirements that miners consult with First Nations. The result is often endless rounds of negotiations with no end in sight,” said Kenneth Green, Fraser Institute senior director of energy and natural resources. “Providing First Nations with private ownership of mineral rights will create a framework grounded in property rights and common law that would bring clarity to negotiations between First Nations and miners over project development.” ….” – Study: “Divergent Mineral Rights Regimes: A Natural Experiment in Canada and the United States Yields Lessons”
robert-1
10 years ago
Ontario halts ONTC wind-down; plans $23M investment instead
by Wendy Parker
The Ontario government has done an about-face on its plans to sell off or close the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission.
In a release this morning, the government said Ontario will continue to own and operate most of the century-old transportation network, which is headquartered in North Bay.
Two years ago, the government vowed to remove the money-draining operation from its books. Now, however, it intends to make “new strategic investments” amounting to more than $23 million over the next three years.
If approved, those expenditures would include new, accessible motor coaches for the bus line and refurbished passenger rail coaches for the Polar Bear Express to Moosonee.
Only the ONTC’s telecommunications unit – Ontera -- will actually leave the government fold. Bell Aliant will purchase the telephone and internet provider, which serves about 30,000 northeastern Ontario customers, for $6 million cash and other considerations that are expected to generate $10 million in long-term revenue for the ONTC.
As part of that deal, Ontario and Bell Aliant “will each commit $15.1 million as part of a $30.2 million public-private investment in telecommunications infrastructure in northeastern Ontario,” the release said.
Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle, whose ministry oversees the ONTC, said he was pleased to announce that motor coach, PBX, rail freight, and refurbishment operations would remain in public hands.
“Our government is prepared to support these lines with new strategic investments of over $23 million and I look forward to our continued work as we transform the ONTC,” he said. “I am also very encouraged by what Bell Aliant will bring to support strong telecommunications services in the northeast, including a $30.2 million public-private investment in infrastructure.”
The release said today’s announcement stems from “extensive consultations with Aboriginal, municipal, industry and labour leaders and provides much-needed certainty to the communities of northeastern Ontario.”
In March 2012, the government stunned northerners with a decision to wind down the ONTC, discontinue the Northlander passenger train service between Toronto and Cochrane, and sell off the corporation's commercially valuable assets.
That, in turn, sparked a "new deal" counter-proposal from employees and local leaders that would see ONTC assets transferred to a ports authority, which would deliver services to northeastern communities and participate in the development of Ontario's far northern Ring of Fire mineral zone.
Wendy Parker | April 4, 2014 at 1:56 pm | Tags: economic development, mining suppliers, northern ontario economy, Ontario government, Ring of Fire, transportation | Categories: northern ontario, Ontario economy, Opportunities, Ring of Fire | URL: http://wp.me/p1KdlU-XS
robert-1
10 years ago
News Release
Transforming the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission
April 4, 2014
Ontario Investing in Northeastern Transportation Services and Infrastructure
Ontario will continue to operate the motor coach, Polar Bear Express, rail freight, and refurbishment services of the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC) as a government-owned transportation company.
The province will make new strategic investments to ensure ONTC's transportation services and infrastructure continue to support economic growth in northeastern Ontario.
The investments include more than $23 million over three years, subject to annual budget approvals, to purchase new motor coaches for its bus line and to refurbish rail coaches for the Polar Bear Express. This will maintain and improve vital transportation services, and provide new work for the ONTC refurbishment division.
Ontario has also reached an agreement with Bell Aliant to purchase Ontera. Proceeds from the sale include $6 million in cash and will result in long-term revenue to ONTC estimated at $10 million. The province and Bell Aliant will each commit $15.1 million as part of a $30.2 million public-private investment in telecommunications infrastructure in northeastern Ontario.
This announcement is the result of extensive consultations with Aboriginal, municipal, industry and labour leaders and provides much-needed certainty to the communities of northeastern Ontario.
Transforming the ONTC is part of Ontario's plan to ensure a prosperous regional economy that attracts people and investment to northern Ontario.
QUICK FACTS
1.ONTC provides freight transportation to industries in northeastern Ontario and northwestern Quebec along its 1,100-kilometre rail system, which spans from Moosonee to North Bay and from Calstock to Rouyn-Noranda, Que.
2.In 2012-13, 240,000 passengers used ONTC motor coach services. Ridership has been increasing over the past three years.
3.The Polar Bear Express carries approximately 64,000 passengers per year.
4.The sale of Ontera was open and competitive, and included oversight by a third-party fairness monitor.
5.Through the competitive process, Bell Aliant demonstrated they can meet provincial priorities to sustain jobs, deliver telecommunications services, invest in the business in northern Ontario and provide value for taxpayers.
6.Since 2003, the province has invested $2.8 billion in roads, bridges and highways in northeastern Ontario.
LEARN MORE
1.Find out about Bell Aliant.
2.Read about the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission.
QUOTES
""
— ,
"I am very pleased to announce that motor coach, PBX, rail freight, and refurbishment will all remain in public hands. Our government is prepared to support these lines with new strategic investments of over $23 million and I look forward to our continued work as we transform the ONTC. I am also very encouraged by what Bell Aliant will bring to support strong telecommunications services in the northeast, including a $30.2 million public-private investment in infrastructure."
— Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines
"The ONTC management team continues to work in partnership with northern leaders and the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines to find a viable, long-term solution for the ONTC. All organizations need to adapt and change in order to be sustainable. I think this is our time to change. I am happy to see that the province will invest in new, accessible motor coaches for the ONTC bus line and refurbish passenger rail coaches for the Polar Bear Express. This focus on investing in transportation will mean that real transformation of the ONTC can continue."
— Ted Hargreaves, chair of Ontario Northland Transportation Commission
"The province’s plan to invest more than $23 million to purchase new, accessible motor coaches for its bus line and refurbish passenger rail coaches for the Polar Bear Express means that real transformation and restructuring of the ONTC will continue. As Ontera joins Bell Aliant, we are hopeful that combined with new investments, Ontera’s legacy of achievement and excellence will continue to thrive under new ownership in the years ahead."
— Paul Goulet, president and CEO of Ontario Northland Transportation Commission
"After two years of great uncertainty for the men and women of the ONTC, today is a good news day for the City of North Bay. My number one priority all along was to save jobs and bring certainty to the future of the ONTC. We welcome the $23 million investment in our buses and refurbishment shops which not only retains jobs but builds enormous potential for future job creation here in our community. This announcement ensures that the ONTC, which has been headquartered here in our city for over 100 years, will remain and bring stability and confidence to our community."
— Al McDonald, Mayor of North Bay
-------------------------------------------------------
The good news is that the ontc will continue to do rail freight for the north. This means they will probably go ahead with the government corporation and use kwg route in the future development of the north. kwg will come out of these negotiations with big agreements.
robert-1
10 years ago
New Study on Ring of Fire Released
Ontario’s Ring of Fire could generate tens of billions of dollars in economic activity and thousands of new jobs across Ontario, study shows
A new report from the Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce reveals that Ontario’s Ring of Fire, the mineral resource-rich region in the James Bay Lowlands, will generate up to $9.4 billion in new economic activity over the first 10 years of operation and sustain 5,500 jobs annually.
According to the study, Beneath the Surface: Uncovering the Economic Potential of Ontario’s Ring of Fire, the mining development could generate more than $25 billion across numerous sectors in Ontario by 2047, including $2.7 billion in revenues for the financial services sector and $1.2 billion for the wholesale and retail trade sectors.
“Our study makes it clear that the short-and long-term economic impacts of the Ring of Fire extend far beyond mining,” says Allan O’Dette, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “It’s time to broaden the Ring of Fire conversation to include all of Ontario, not just the Far North.”
“The Ring of Fire will generate an estimated $6.2 billion for Ontario’s mining sector in the first 10 years of its development, with much of this mining activity being concentrated in Northern Ontario,” says David Boyce, Chair of the Board, Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce. “Development of the Ring of Fire is important to all Ontarians, regardless of geography. The positive impacts will be felt across the province in the form of increased GDP, job creation, and government revenue.”
The study shows that the Ring of Fire will generate significant revenue for governments, to the tune of $1.95 billion within the first 10 years of its development. The authors call on the provincial and federal governments to design and fund a plan to address inadequate transportation infrastructure in the Ring of Fire, which is cited as a significant barrier to development.
“There is a strong business case for governments to invest in this economic opportunity,” says O’Dette. “The federal government, in particular, needs to play a more active role in this development, as it has for other transformative projects including the oil sands, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and Churchill Falls.”
“The Ring of Fire is one of Ontario’s greatest economic development opportunities in a generation. However, significant work still needs to be done before the full economic potential of the Ring of Fire can be realized. The federal and provincial government must work together with the private sector and Aboriginal partners to share responsibilities in order to propel this development forward. We can’t let this opportunity pass us by,” adds Boyce.
Additional highlights from study include:
Within the first 10 years of its development, the Ring of Fire will:
## generate up to $9.4 billion in Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
## generate up to $6.2 billion for Ontario’s mining industry
## sustain up to 5,500 jobs annually (full time equivalents)
## generate nearly $2 billion in government revenue, divided between the federal, provincial, and municipal governments.
Within the first 32 years of its development, the Ring of Fire will generate more than $25 billion in economic activity across numerous sectors in Ontario, of which mining is just one:
## $2.7 billion in revenues for the financial services sector
## $1.2 billion for the wholesale and retail trade sectors
## $600 million for the manufacturing sector
## $500 million for the utilities sector
Read Beneath the Surface: Uncovering the Economic Potential of Ontario’s Ring of Fire
- See more at: http://sudburychamber.ca/new-study-on-ring-of-fire-released/?#sthash.O6gaM4E7.dpuf
Read more at http://www.stockhouse.com/companies/bullboard/v.kwg/kwg-resources-inc#jsKWIEAorWvqLr3Q.99
robert-1
10 years ago
AGREEMENT SIGNED:
Ontario, First Nations to Work Together on Ring of Fire
Historic Agreement to Move Ring of Fire Development Forward
March 26, 2014 3:00 p.m.
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
The Province of Ontario and Matawa-member First Nations are taking another step forward by reaching a landmark agreement that will ensure First Nation communities benefit from the proposed Ring of Fire development.
The regional framework agreement is a first step in a historic, community-based negotiation process, which began in July 2013 at the request of Matawa-member First Nations.
The nine Matawa-member First Nations and the Province of Ontario signed a framework agreement today to move forward with a negotiation process on a community-based regional approach to development in the Ring of Fire.
The agreement ensures First Nations and Ontario can work together to advance Ring of Fire opportunities, including regional long-term environmental monitoring and enhanced participation in environmental assessment processes, resource revenue sharing, economic supports, regional and community infrastructure.
Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines, signed the Regional Framework on behalf of Ontario. The chiefs signed on behalf of their communities, which included:
•Chief Sonny Gagnon, Aroland First Nations
•Chief Fred Sackaney, Constance Lake First Nation
• Chief Elizabeth Atlookan, Eabametoong First Nation
•Chief Celia Echum, Ginoogaming First Nation
•Chief Elijah Moonias, Marten Falls First Nation
•Acting Chief, Roy Moonias, Neskantaga First Nation
•Chief Johnny Yellowhead, Nibinamik First Nation
• Chief Allen Towegishig, Long Lake #58 First Nation
•Chief Cornelius Wabasse, Webequie First Nation
An official celebration will take place at a later date. Details to be announced.
Investing in the development of the Ring of Fire is part of Ontario's economic plan that is creating jobs for today and tomorrow. The comprehensive plan and its six priorities focus on Ontario's greatest strengths -- its people and strategic partnerships.
Matawa Chiefs Council is comprised of the Matawa-Member First Nations Chiefs. The First Nations are located in Northern Ontario. Five First Nations are remote and accessible only by air or winter road. Four of the First Nations are drive-in communities. All nine First Nations will be impacted by resource development in the area known as the Ring of Fire.
Quick Facts
•The Ring of Fire, located 540 kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay, is one of the most significant mineral regions in the province.
•The Ring of Fire has mineral potential known to be worth $60 billion and includes the largest deposit of chromite ever discovered in North America. Chromite is a key ingredient of stainless steel.
•The Ring of Fire also holds the potential for significant production of nickel, copper and platinum.
•In July 2013, Ontario appointed the Honourable Frank Iacobucci as the lead negotiator for Ontario to participate in discussions with the Matawa-member First Nations on proposed resource development in the Ring of Fire.
•In November 2013, Ontario announced that it would lead the creation of a development corporation to bring together private and public partners, including key mining companies, First Nations, and the provincial and federal governments, to lead strategic infrastructure development for the Ring of Fire region.
•Development in the Ring of Fire is subject to all necessary environmental assessment and regulatory processes, and fulfillment of the Crown’s duty to consult.
Quotes
Michael Gravelle
qThis regional framework agreement is a landmark achievement in community and regional discussions. I am proud that our collaborative work with Matawa-member First Nations continues to progress. Together, we are moving forward on realizing the Ring of Fire’s potential and making important advancements on regional, environmental, and economic developments.”
Michael Gravelle
Minister of Northern Development and Mines
David Zimmer
qImproving the quality of life and creating lasting economic benefits for First Nations communities is a priority for this government. This regional framework is a historic agreement that demonstrates how respectful dialogue, negotiation and collaboration can move economic development projects forward, creating benefits for everyone involved.”
David Zimmer
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs
qI’ve seen many framework type processes come and go, and MOUs, and some have had beneficial results but many have not gone anywhere. I am optimistic that this regional framework allows us to be more involved in development and the decision-making that is going to happen. I am assured the regional framework will enhance and not supersede our community-based MOU signed in September 2012. We are working to set the course to move our First Nations away from dependence so that we can capture the maximum benefits and move towards community wellness and increase ambition for our people.”
Chief Elijah K. Moonias
Marten Falls First Nation
qThis is a special and significant event and we are looking forward to an official celebration. The negotiations under this framework will complement the essential direct negotiations Webequie is having with the Province of Ontario on a range of issues related to the Ring of Fire. Success in both of these negotiations will chart a course for a different future for all of us. It is now time for the real work to begin and we look forward to working with Ontario and our fellow First Nations.”
Chief Cornelius Wabasse
Webequie First Nation
qThis framework demonstrates that our First Nations are open for development that is sustainable and respects our lands.”
Chief Sonny Gagnon
Aroland First Nation
qThe regional framework is not about selling our land, but sharing our land as our Elders envisioned for the benefit of all. Nibinamik First Nation understands the importance of balance between economic development that is required to ensure community growth and productivity and the need to sustain cultural values and beliefs particularly as related to the land.”
Chief Johnny Yellowhead
Nibinamik First Nation
qEabametoong is a large First Nation and we have worked very hard to get here. Our community is hopeful about the future now that we can move forward on resource development discussions with the province.”
Chief Elizabeth Atlookan
Eabametoong First Nation
qOur community members, both on and off reserve, will be very engaged in this process. Our neighbours in Greenstone and the entire Northern Ontario region should be pleased that we now have a process. This is a milestone for everyone in Ontario.”
Chief Allen Towegishig
Long Lake #58 First Nation
qI am so proud to stand with our nine chiefs and sign this regional framework today. My community members back home have been waiting a long time to have meaningful negotiations with Ontario. This is just the beginning.”
Chief Fred Sackaney
Constance Lake First Nation
qI’m signing on behalf of Neskantaga First Nation and Chief Peter Moonias, who has worked very hard to move the regional framework forward. We are all very excited about the progress and are looking forward to working together for our children’s future.”
Acting Chief Roy Moonias
Neskantaga First Nation
qI want to thank all my First Nation members. We have worked really hard at the community level to get where we are today. I look forward to working with our chiefs and with Ontario as we move forward.”
Chief Celia Echum
Ginoogaming First Nation
robert-1
10 years ago
Chamber of commerce weighs in:
Ontario Chamber of Commerce seeks to push Ring of Fire mining potential forward
According to Allan O’Dette, President & CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce, “Ontario’s economy is at a historic crossroads. Its value proposition in the global economy has shifted dramatically. Ontario, now more than ever, must identify and champion opportunities where it can be a global leader. The Ring of Fire is such an opportunity. We believe that this globally significant deposit of minerals in Ontario’s Far North is one of the province’s greatest economic development opportunities in a generation.”
The Ring of Fire was covered in detail in International Mining magazine, December 2012, pp3-4. The Ring of Fire is a mineral resource-rich area of some 5,120 km2 located in the James Bay Lowlands region of Northern Ontario.
The chamber has released a new report, Beneath the Surface: Uncovering the Economic Potential of Ontario’s Ring of Fire. The action plan for this region includes many points, that include:
1.“Ontario should develop a long-term infrastructure plan for the Far North, based on input from northern and First Nation communities and the mining sector
2.The provincial and federal governments should commit funds dedicated to building transportation infrastructure
3.Equip the Ring of Fire Development Corporation with the tools and resources it needs to deliver on its mandate
4.In the near-term, the Government of Ontario and the private sector should consider alternative modes of transportation that facilitate year round access to the Ring of Fire
5.As an immediate next step, the Government of Ontario should conduct a rigorous cost-benefit analysis of a special electricity incentive to locate mineral processing plants in Ontario. This analysis should be made public
6.The Government of Ontario, in partnership with the mining sector, Aboriginal groups, and key stakeholders, should undertake a comprehensive review of regulations that apply to mining. Unnecessary regulatory barriers that impede the development of the Ring of Fire should be removed to the greatest extent possible
7.The federal government should take on a more active role in the development of the Ring of Fire. At a minimum, it should match any provincial investments in Ring of Fire infrastructure
robert-1
10 years ago
Infrastructure Improvements in Store for Northwestern Ontario (Ontario Ministry of Northern Development and Mines)
Posted, 2014-03-11
? noodls
? SMS this page
? Email this page
? Share this story
wn.com
(Source: Ontario Ministry of Northern Development and Mines) Infrastructure Improvements in Store for Northwestern Ontario Province Building Stronger Communities, Creating Jobs March 11, 2014 10:00 a.m. Ministry of Northern Development and Mines Ontario is investing close to $14 million to support improvements to critical infrastructure while creating local construction jobs in northwestern Ontario. The province is supporting these improvements through the Small, Rural and Northern Municipal Infrastructure Fund, which is providing $100 million to help municipalities across the province build and maintain...more »
Latest News
Infrastructure Improvements in Store for Northeastern Ontario (Ontario Ministry of Northern Development and Mines)
(Source: Ontario Ministry of Northern Development and Mines) Infrastructure Improvements in Store for Northeastern Ontario Province Building Stronger Communities, Creating Jobs March 11, 2014 10:00...
noodls 2014-03-11
Infrastructure Improvements in Store for Southwestern Ontario (Ontario Ministry of Rural Affairs)
(Source: Ontario Ministry of Rural Affairs) Infrastructure Improvements in Store for Southwestern Ontario Province Building Stronger Communities, Creating Jobs March 11, 2014 3:00 p.m. Ministry of...
noodls 2014-03-11
Eastern Ontario to Benefit from Infrastructure Improvements (Ontario Ministry of Rural Affairs)
(Source: Ontario Ministry of Rural Affairs) Eastern Ontario to Benefit from Infrastructure Improvements Province Building Stronger Communities, Creating Jobs March 11, 2014 3:00 p.m. Ministry of Rural...
noodls 2014-03-11
Infrastructure Improvements in Store for Hastings County (Ontario Ministry of Rural Affairs)
(Source: Ontario Ministry of Rural Affairs) A strong, prosperous rural Ontario requires modern and efficient infrastructure. Through this fund, our government is helping...
noodls 2014-03-11
Related Videos
?
?
SAVVAS KOTSOPOULOS, Miller Thomson LLP, Lexpert 2013 Rising Star
5:32
SAVVAS KOTSOPOULOS, Miller Thomson LLP, Lexpert 2013 Rising Star
Published: 26 Nov 2013
City of Owen Sound October 21, 2013 Council Meeting
85:55
City of Owen Sound October 21, 2013 Council Meeting
Published: 22 Oct 2013
My Ontario-Port Hope Ontario Canada.mp4
7:39
My Ontario-Port Hope Ontario Canada.mp4
Published: 02 Jun 2011
RURAL ROADS LOAN REQUEST:
2:17
RURAL ROADS LOAN REQUEST:
Published: 15 Sep 2011
Gerard Kennedy - Question Period, October 28, 2009
2:46
Gerard Kennedy - Question Period, October 28, 2009
Published: 04 Dec 2009
Video of 89 Western Avenue | Gloucester, Massachusetts real estate & homes
4:44
Video of 89 Western Avenue | Gloucester, Massachusetts real estate & homes
Published: 01 Mar 2014
Addiction Treatment and Addiction Help through Hypnosis
4:05
Addiction Treatment and Addiction Help through Hypnosis
Published: 29 Jul 2010
MNDM Hon. Michael Gravelle on Moving Ring of Fire Infrastructure Development
3:21
MNDM Hon. Michael Gravelle on Moving Ring of Fire Infrastructure Development
Published: 14 Feb 2014
Fedeli outlines Northern concerns over Liberal infrastructure fund Oct. 29, 2013
1:33
Fedeli outlines Northern concerns over Liberal infrastructure fund Oct. 29, 2013
Published: 29 Oct 2013
MPP John Vanthof on 2013 Liberal Budget
2:02
MPP John Vanthof on 2013 Liberal Budget
Published: 13 May 2013
Charlie Angus on the ONTC and Infrastructure
1:02
Charlie Angus on the ONTC and Infrastructure
Published: 26 Feb 2013
Gerard Kennedy - Question Period, October 22, 2009
2:43
Gerard Kennedy - Question Period, October 22, 2009
Published: 04 Dec 2009
Smart Water Networks and Infrastructure - Break Out Session, Water Innovation in Action Conference
6:29
Smart Water Networks and Infrastructure - Break Out Session, Water Innovation in Action Conference
Published: 07 Jun 2013
Sarah Campbell, MPP, pushing for sustained infrastructure funding for small municipalities
1:30
Sarah Campbell, MPP, pushing for sustained infrastructure funding for small municipalities
Published: 11 Sep 2012
Rebuild The Elliot Lake Business Infrastructure
2:52
Rebuild The Elliot Lake Business Infrastructure
Published: 26 Oct 2012
MP Joyce Bateman asks about our government's commitment to infrastructure investments
1:17
MP Joyce Bateman asks about our government's commitment to infrastructure investments
Published: 06 Mar 2014
February 24 2014 Bill 141, Infrastructure for Jobs & Prosperity Act
9:00
February 24 2014 Bill 141, Infrastructure for Jobs & Prosperity Act
Published: 24 Feb 2014
copper ore processing company ontario
3:10
copper ore processing company ontario
Published: 08 Jan 2014
Restructuring Ontario's OHS system
4:17
Restructuring Ontario's OHS system
Published: 18 Aug 2010
First Nations -- Municipal Community Infrastructure Partnership Program
3:01
First Nations -- Municipal Community Infrastructure Partnership Program
Published: 21 Jun 2012
NDP calls on Libs to halt ONTC sell-off, admit plan was a mistake
3:59
NDP calls on Libs to halt ONTC sell-off, admit plan was a mistake
Published: 11 Dec 2013
Fednor Announcement
2:45
Fednor Announcement
Published: 25 Jan 2012
TOEFL Reading test 2.1
4:22
TOEFL Reading test 2.1
Published: 24 Nov 2013
Trains of Ontario HD (Video#31)
0:55
Trains of Ontario HD (Video#31)
Published: 28 Apr 2011
Sudbury News - Northern growth plan
1:17
Sudbury News - Northern growth plan
Published: 04 Mar 2011
Our Framework for Success | Horizon Santé-Nord
1:09
Our Framework for Success | Horizon Santé-Nord
Published: 19 Jun 2013
Trains of Ontario HD (Video # 35)
1:25
Trains of Ontario HD (Video # 35)
Published: 28 May 2011
Trains of Ontario HD (Video#36)
1:48
Trains of Ontario HD (Video#36)
Published: 05 Jun 2011
Liberals snuffed out the Ring of Fire: NDP
2:27
Liberals snuffed out the Ring of Fire: NDP
Published: 22 Nov 2013
Min. Glen Murray - Opening Keynote Canadia Urban Forum - 18 June 2013
45:57
Min. Glen Murray - Opening Keynote Canadia Urban Forum - 18 June 2013
Published: 28 Jun 2013
Popular News Stories
?
?
A Malaysia Airlines 777-200ER. After the original model, Boeing developed the 777-200ER, an increased gross weight variant with greater range and payload capability.
Terror theory for missing Malaysian jet; floating door spotted
The Times of India
Malaysia Airlines B777
Why Malaysia Airlines jet might have disappeared
The Washington Post
Chinese relatives of passengers aboard a missing Malaysia Airlines plane wait inside a hotel room in Beijing Monday, March 10, 2014.
Vanished Malaysia plane an 'aviation mystery'
Al Jazeera
Anti-government protesters shout "Glory to the Ukraine" as they man a barricade at Independence Square in Kiev, Ukraine, Friday, Feb. 21, 2014.
Ukraine's Crimea seeks to become independent state
Times Union
Ukrainian police detain a demonstrator during a pro Russia rally in Donetsk, Ukraine, Sunday, March 9, 2014.
Russia condemns 'lawlessness' in eastern Ukraine
BBC News
Oscar Pistorius buries his head in his hand as he listens to cross questioning, in the second week of his trial, about the events surrounding the shooting death of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, in court during his trial in Pretoria, South Africa, Monday, March 10, 2014.
Pathologist shares autopsy report at Pistorius trial
Mail Guardian South Africa
In this Monday March 3, 2014 photo, police officers question two Uighur men, left, as a Han Chinese man walks past them in Kunming, in western China's Yunnan province.
China's Recognition of Uighur Pens Will Eliminate Swords
WorldNews.com
Blood sample to test his cholesterol.
Scientists develop blood test to detect Alzheimer's disease
The Independent
File - A NATO E3A AWACS aircraft at the Trapani-Birgi military base in Trapani, Italy, March 25, 2011, during Operation Unified Protector against Libya.
Ukraine: Nato Planes To Monitor Russian Troops
Orange News
Like World News? Why not 'Like' World News
Related News
Infrastructure Improvements In Store for United Counties of Leeds and Grenville (Ontario Ministry of Rural Affairs)
(Source: Ontario Ministry of Rural Affairs) A strong, prosperous rural Ontario requires modern and efficient infrastructure. Through this fund, our government is helping...
noodls 2014-03-11
Infrastructure Improvements in Store for Renfrew County (Ontario Ministry of Rural Affairs)
(Source: Ontario Ministry of Rural Affairs) A strong, prosperous rural Ontario requires modern and efficient infrastructure. Through this fund, our government is helping...
noodls 2014-03-11
DC Water extends comment period for proposed modifications to the Long Term Control Plan to include green infrastructure (District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority)
(Source: District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority) DC Water extends comment period for proposed modifications to the Long Term Control Plan to include green infrastructure Mar 10, 2014 -- Today DC Water General Manager George S. Hawkins announced a 30-day extension to the public comment period for a dramatic plan leveraging green infrastructure (GI) to reduce combined...
noodls 2014-03-10
Federal Government Invests to Strengthen Northern Ontario’s Mining Supply and Services Sector (FedNor - Federal Economic Development Initiative in Northern Ontario)
(Source: FedNor - Federal Economic Development Initiative in Northern Ontario) A FedNor investment of $90,000, through the Northern Ontario Development...
noodls 2014-03-11
Investment in our water system is an investment in metro Detroit's future
Is the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department a jewel, or junk? Is it is an asset, or a liability? Can southeast Michigan?s aging water and wastewater infrastructure foster economic development and a better quality of life? We take drinking water and wastewater treatment for granted, but there was a time when people got sick, even died, from bad drinking water, and when rivers,...
Detroit Free Press 2014-03-10
Building Job Skills and Infrastructure for the 2015 Games (Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities)
(Source: Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities) Building Job Skills and Infrastructure for the 2015 Games Ontario Supporting More Participation in Skilled Trades March 10, 2014 9:15 a.m. Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Ontario is preparing 200 people to become apprentices by providing training opportunities through the construction of Pan Am...
noodls 2014-03-10
Related Sites
Ontario
Trades
Canadians
Brad Duguid
Colleges and Universities
Pan Am
MNDM Hon. Michael Gravelle on Movin...3:21
Search
Youtube Results
robert-1
10 years ago
PM to meet Kathleen Wynne to talk Ring of Fire
posted on Dec 04, 13 04:00PM Use the IP Check tool [?]
Breaking
PM to meet Kathleen Wynne to talk Ring of Fire
By Susana Mas, CBC News Posted: Dec 04, 2013 3:48 PM ET Last Updated: Dec 04, 2013 3:48 PM ET
Prime Minister Stephen Harper will be meeting with Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne on Thursday in Ottawa to discuss the Ring of Fire.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper will be meeting with Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne on Thursday in Ottawa to discuss the Ring of Fire. (Graham Hughes/Canadian Press)
Related Stories
1.Harper's Ring of Fire comments took Ontario by 'surprise'
2.Solving 'Ring of Fire' mine delays up to Ontario, Harper says
3.Ring of Fire delay highlights need for mining infrastructure
4.Cliffs suspends Ring of Fire project in northern Ontario
5.Ontario creating Ring of Fire development corporation
Prime Minister Stephen Harper has agreed to meet Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne on Parliament Hill Thursday afternoon to discuss Ontario's Ring of Fire, a mining development project worth an estimated $60 billion.
Wynne is hoping to break the current impasse and convince the prime minister to match the costs of developing the mineral rich region, 500 kilometres north of Thunder Bay, in northern Ontario.
The Ontario government told CBC News last week it was surprised to hear the prime minister dismiss the development in the Ring of Fire as a provincial issue, given that repeated calls for the federal government to play a role in the project had gone unanswered in recent weeks.
1.Harper's Ring of Fire comments took Ontario by 'surprise'
2.Solving 'Ring of Fire' mine delays up to Ontario, Harper says
Harper recently said "this is a project that is primarily under provincial jurisdiction because ultimately resources belong to the provinces and resource development is a provincial responsibility."
Rich in chromite, nickel and gold, the Ring of Fire is considered to be mining jackpot for the province, but Wynne is making the case that the federal government has a responsibility in the development and funding of the infrastructure required.
Kathleen Wynne Ontario Premier
Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne has been calling on the federal government to play a role in the Ring of Fire. Wynne wrote to Prime Minister Stephen Harper on Nov. 8 asking him to share the costs of developing the mineral-rich region in northern Ontario. (Mark Blinch/Canadian Press)
?In a letter to Harper on Nov. 8, Wynne said there is precedence for the federal government to fund infrastructure investments that can prove to yield national economic benefits.
She pointed to the $130 million the federal government provided to support the building of the Northwest Transmission Line project in B.C. and the $6.3 billion it gave Labrador in the form of a federal loan guarantee to support the Lower Churchill project.
The Ontario government has estimated the total capital investment for infrastructure in the range of $800 million to $1 billion, with the estimated costs of connecting the Ring of Fire communities to all-season access roads at $1.25 billion.
Wynne wrote to Harper on the same day she announced the creation of a new development corporation that would bring together private and public partners "to develop, construct, finance, operate and maintain the infrastructure" that supports access in and out of the Ring of Fire.? The Ontario premier was hoping to count the federal government as a partner.
Adding to the challenges of developing the region, is a decision by Cliffs Natural Resources, a major U.S. mining company, to suspend its operations in the area.
Tim Hudak's Progressive Conservatives and Andrea Horwath's New Democrats have blamed Ontario's Liberal government for botching the project.
Bob Rae, the chief negotiator and counsel for the Matawa First Nations, has called on both levels of government to stop squabbling over provincial jurisdiction and create some level of certainty for businesses and First Nations.
robert-1
10 years ago
Focus on transformation, not sell-off, of ONTC
http://www.timminspress.com/2013/12/02/focus-on-transformation-not-sell-off-of-ontc
Focus on transformation, not sell-off, of ONTC
Daily Press City Editor Wayne Snider.
By Wayne Snider, The Daily Press (Timmins)
Monday, December 2, 2013 6:24:52 EST PM
TIMMINS - Selling off the remaining assets of the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission is no longer the primary option for restructuring the Crown corporation.
Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle said Monday the mandate for the ONTC is now transformation rather than divestment. The announcement came following Monday’s meeting of the Minister’s ONTC Advisory Committee, which includes stakeholders from business, industry, labour and Northern municipalities.
“Together, we took the opportunity to further explore options as we move forward with the ONTC transformation,” Gravelle said in a press release. “There was very valuable discussion around the table related to the sustainability of the ONTC.
“Our goal throughout this process remains unchanged; ensuring northern communities and industries benefit from viable, efficient and sustainable transportation and communications systems. At today’s minister’s advisory meeting, I was pleased to reaffirm my commitment to look at all options. In conjunction with this direction the ONTC Commission has revised its Memorandum of Understanding with my ministry from a mandate for divestment to a mandate for transformation of the ONTC. This transformation may include restructuring, alternative service delivery, and divestment.”
In the 2012 provincial budget, the government announced plans to selloff the ONTC. The ONTC’s Northlander passenger rail service was shut down in the fall of 2012.
Monday’s announcement confirmed Gravelle’s position, stated in an interview with The Daily Press in August, where he said divestment was not the only option for the ONTC.
“We will continue our work and thoroughly examine all options with the goal of finding a sustainable solution for the ONTC that serves the interests of Northerners,” Gravelle said Monday. “Ultimately, both our government and the Minister’s Advisory Committee, recognize the importance of a resilient, prosperous regional economy that attracts people and investments to Northern Ontario.”
The announcement came as good news to Kapuskasing Mayor Al Spacek, president of the Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) and a member of the advisory committee. Spacek admitted, however, there is still much work to be done if the ONTC is to be preserved.
“Committee members are unanimous in agreement that maintaining the status quo is not an option,” he said in a phone interview. “There are still significant challenges ahead.
“While not the preferred option, divestment has not been ruled out.”
The future of the ONTC is expected to be among the topics of discussion later this week when provincial cabinet ministers meet in Timmins with key Northern Ontario leaders.
“Certainly, I believe we all see that a modern, sustainable transportation system is vital to supporting that goal,” Gravelle said. “I look forward to continuing the conversation later this week at our Northern Leaders’ Forum in Timmins, where on Friday ... community leaders from across the North will gather to talk about the implementation of the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario, and how we all can partner to achieve economic growth and prosperity in the North.
“I expect that when we bring these bright minds together it will bring new and important ideas to the table.”
robert-1
10 years ago
Provincial government in !!!
Feds reluctant partners on Ring of Fire: Gravelle
By: Northern Ontario Business staff
Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle.
Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle.
The Ontario government's repeated calls for Ottawa to buy into development of the Ring of Fire appear to have gone straight to voice mail.
Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle said it's time for the feds to put its money where its mouth is by working with Queen's Park on infrastructure and fully realize the 100-year potential of the mining district.
Gravelle fired off a Nov. 24 letter to FedNor Minister Greg Rickford, his federal Ring of Fire counterpart, asking that Ottawa participate in the province's newly created Ring of Fire corporation.
“You’ve stated repeatedly that you know the significance of this project but we have yet to see that turn into action,” wrote Gravelle, in alluding to past statements by the Harper government that resource development is essential to Canada's long-term economic growth.
The cash-strapped Wynne government is being hammered by the Opposition and Northerners for bungling and inaction on the Ring of Fire file that's pushed back mining in the remote James Bay region by years.
The flak only intensified after last week's decision by Cliffs Natural Resources to ice its proposed $3.3-billion Black Thor chromite project.
The Ohio miner cited a lack of progress in talks with Queen's Parks over power rates, the environmental assessment process and the lack of commitment on infrastructure and direction in order to reach its stranded deposit.
In one recent news report, Prime Minister Stephen Harper referred to the Ring of Fire as a pure resource development play that falls under provincial jurisdiction.
Gravelle took issue with that in his letter.
He reminded Rickford that Ottawa is responsible for the “well-being of First Nation communities” and a federal investment in the Ring of Fire is a “meaningful way” to hold up its obligations.
Gravelle said the spinoffs from the potential mines will be felt Canada-wide through jobs and increased tax revenues, along with the social and economic benefits to area First Nations.
“Development of this scale is not about jurisdictional boundaries or placing blame — the Ring of Fire development is about much more and that is why we continue to urge your government to be a committed partner for investment and collaboration in the development corporation,” said Gravelle.
On Nov. 8, Gravelle announced the creation of the Ring of Fire development corporation designed to bring key industry, First Nation and government partners to the table to map out a development model.
Premier Kathleen Wynne immediately sent a letter to the prime minister asking for Ottawa's participation.
However the corporation's governance structure is unclear and the Ontario government has not yet committed infrastructure dollars but it is asking Ottawa to provide matching funds.
Provincial officials assigned to the corporation have met in private one-on-one meetings with mining companies such as KWG Resources and Noront Resources, but Ottawa has not yet responded to Queen's Park's invitation to be participate in the process.
According to Gravelle's letter, the province's repeated requests for Ottawa to team up have fallen on deaf ears, citing correspondence dating back to last year on May 8, June 1 and Sept 6.
“In fact, as recently as November 7th, in Ontario’s Fall Economic Statement, we renewed our call on the federal government to step up to the plate. That call went unanswered.”
While the Ring of Fire mining project milestones are few, Gravelle said the province has produced a “number of ground breaking initiatives,” including the naming of ex-Supreme Court Justice Frank Iacobucci as its chief negotiator with the Matawa Tribal Council.
Gravelle said those negotiations led to the Matawa chiefs withdrawing their legal challenge on the federal environmental assessment process.
“This is an investment not just in Ontario’s, but Canada’s future,” said Gravelle. “Now is the time to act and support resource development, jobs and growth in Northern Ontario.”
MWM
10 years ago
Cliffs Suspends Ontario Ring of Fire Chromite Project
By Liezel Hill - Nov 21, 2013 7:58 AM ET
Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. (CLF), the biggest U.S. iron-ore producer, said it will suspend its $3.3 billion chromite project in Canada by the end of the year, citing the risks of developing infrastructure in the remote area.
All technical project work, including a feasibility study and exploration, is being halted and there is no restart date planned, Cleveland-based Cliffs said in a statement late yesterday. Offices in Thunder Bay, Ontario, and Toronto will close, it said. The company already suspended environmental-impact assessment activities for the project, located in the mineral-rich Ring of Fire region of northern Ontario.
Cliffs’s project was among the most advanced in the Ring of Fire, an area about 1,200 kilometers (740 miles) north of Chicago, which holds deposits of nickel and copper that may be worth between C$30 billion ($29 billion) and C$50 billion, the Canadian government said in March. The company’s plans received a setback when the Mining and Lands Commission of Ontario ruled against Cliffs’ proposal for an all-weather road to transport ore that would cross claims of another company in the area.
Cliffs “will not allocate additional capital for the project given the uncertain timeline and risks associated with the development of necessary infrastructure to bring this project online,” the company said in the statement. “Cliffs will continue its work with the Government of Ontario, First Nation communities and other interested parties to explore potential solutions related to the critical issue of infrastructure for the Ring of Fire region.”
Chromite is processed into ferrochrome, an ingredient used to produce stainless steel. Cliffs estimated the project’s total cost at $3.3 billion, including mine development, a processing facility and transportation infrastructure, the company said in January 2012.
robert-1
10 years ago
FIRST STAR TO THE RIGHT THEN STRAIGHT ON TILL MORNING !!!
Written by Hon. Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines
Friday, 08 November 2013 11:18
The Ring of Fire is a tremendous opportunity, with incredible potential to unlock economic potential within the region, create thousands of jobs and significantly strengthen our economy for years to come. There is no question that this is a very complex undertaking, particularly when one acknowledges that this is a major resource development project in a remote part of the province that has never seen development before. That is why it’s so important that we lay the necessary groundwork now. And that work is underway;
- A historic regional process with Chiefs of the Matawa Tribal Council, led by former Justice Iacobucci and Bob Rae;
- Capacity building, to ensure people have the training and skills required to take advantage of the benefits developing the region will bring;
- Community readiness initiatives, to support communities as they become vital transportation hubs and new centres for the mining services and supply sector, a sector sure to see incredible growth; and
- Certainly our work with interested companies continues to show progress.
However, recent developments, and divergent private sector interests, have impacted our ability to move forward on vital infrastructure required to develop the region. We need to get people in to work and goods out to the global market. Currently there are a variety of proposals for infrastructure development. They propose different corridors and different modes of transportation, but in the end, they all lead to the same place. In recent weeks, it has become increasingly clear to me, that we need to determine exactly what those infrastructure needs are, and we need to do it now. What will serve development of the region best, what will serve the people of Ontario best.
That is why, today, our government is announcing we will take action to ensure strategic infrastructure development for the region can and will move forward with the creation of a development corporation. The creation of a development corporation will bring First Nations, mining companies, and provincial and federal partners together to settle divergent interests and get back to making this development happen. They will determine infrastructure needs and financing to support infrastructure development. We will reach out to our partners immediately to ensure work starts today. This project is, simply put, too important.
My intention is, and always has been, to drive this project forward. I am pleased that today our government is taking action to do just that. We are going to invest in this vital piece of infrastructure. But we really need the federal government to join us. This is a truly significant piece of infrastructure that will drive tremendous economic opportunity for the people of Northern Ontario and, indeed, the whole province. Various federal ministers of the Crown have been telling us they are committed to working with us, and that they will make the necessary investments to support Northern Ontario, and make this project a reality. Well, the time has come for the federal government to step up. They've done it in Alberta with the oil sands, in Newfoundland with a $6 billion dollar hydro-electric project and elsewhere like B.C. They need to place the same amount of significance in northern Ontario as the Wynne government does, as we all here do. We are an economic force, a leader in the country and their support for our province should be no different than what we have seen for development in other provinces. That is my expectation as Minister of Northern Development and Mines. I believe it is yours as well. Our government’s commitment is clear. We want to get it right. And we want to get it done. Thank you.
robert-1
12 years ago
A potential game-changer was brought to the table from North Bay City Hall on Friday for the impending divestment of the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission.
Together on Oct. 19, the ONTC union leadership, Ontario’s far north First Nations, a former ONTC director and Nipissing Timiskaming MP Jay Aspin unveiled a plan to transform the Commission from a provincial Crown corporation into a modern federal one.
“In my view it is time to have a plan for Northern Ontario to retain its wealth for all of Northern Ontarians. For too long Northern Ontarians have been hewers of wood and drawers of water. This has to end,” said Aspin.
The new plan would transform the ONTC from a provincial corporation under direct ministerial control to an independent federal corporation called a “port’s authority” under the Canada Marine Act passed in 1998.
The Act has designated 17 port’s authorities across the country, including Vancouver, Toronto, Halifax, Thunder Bay and this year, Oshawa.
As the newest proposed port authority, the partners on Oct. 19, dubbed it the James Bay Lowlands Port Authority to service not just the existing ONTC lines, but also invest heavily to be the main source of transportation to the Ring of Fire now in development in the remote hinterland west of James Bay.
“We think it will work smoothly. All of the chiefs believe it is the right way to go, said Deputy-Grand-Chief Leo Friday of the Mushkegowuk Council, who traveled to take part in the announcement from Moose Factory on James Bay.
He cited the support of the First Nations people of the region being based on rail being the most environmentally sound method of moving large amounts of ore out of the development.
“Anything on rail is way better than anything on rubber,” said Roy Hains, former ONTC board director and now CEO of the newly created James Bay and Lowlands Ports Trustee Corporation.
Hains was a negotiator during the ONTC divestment attempt in 2003, and says he has been working on a solution for the current process since it was announced.
This time around he has been building a coalition to support the new ownership model, bringing First Nations communities, unions, pensioners and Aspin together for the new vision.
“It goes from the provincial government not wanting it to being an independent driver for economic growth,” said Hains.
The first step identified is not getting full federal government support, but convincing the provincial government to put the brakes on the divestment process, specifically halting the sale of Ontera.
“The first thing we’re going to tell Minister (Rick) Bartollucci is not to sell Ontera. We don’t want you to break up the assets,” said Hains.
Keeping Ontera is a key component to financing the expansion of the rail line from Hearst to Nakina on old rail bed and then building new line north to the chromite deposits in the Ring of Fire. A comprehensive sustainability plan by the mine developers in 2010 identified the route as being viable, but with a cost of $1.2 billion, including the construction of 98 new bridges to complete the journey.
That cost was not fazing the partners at the announcement on Friday.
“Ports authorities can raise capital. A port authority is to stakeholders what a company is to shareholders,” said Aspin.
“This chromite is just the first step. It has nickel, silver, gold… It is a bastion of wealth,” said Aspin.
The unions’ joint board, the General Chairperson Association, has enthusiastically supported the deal, saying if it can move forward they will put their money where their jobs are.
“The employees have significant investments in pensions, benefits and their various collective agreements,” said Brian Stevens, GCA spokesperson. “We will leverage those investments with the provincial government… We intend to meet again with Ministers Chiarelli and Bartolucci and staff from Infrastructure Ontario… and look forward to their help in accomplishing our plan while reminding them of their obligations and policy commitments.”
Leading up to the Friday announcement, all parties admitted to being tight-lipped about their proposal, with union leadership holding back from telling their membership until just hours before the official press conference took place.
Stevens said they didn’t want to make the announcement until all of the pieces were in place, but that the fast-tracked sale of Ontera was forcing them to show their hand early to prevent the ONTC’s breakup.
Asked if it was too late to change the government’s course, Stevens was upbeat.
“I’ve been involved with labour negotiations all of my adult life. I’m always optimistic that there is always opportunity,” said Stevens.
According to the federal government’s website, port authorities, “operate at arm’s length from the federal government and are directed by an independent board of directors. This model makes Canada’s major ports commercially efficient, allowing them to remain competitive in the global economy.”
It also states, “To qualify for (port authority) status a port must be: vital to domestic and international trade; financially self-sufficient; serve large and diversified markets; and have links with major rail lines or highways.”
If the feds are going to make a port authority that would include the rail corridor what carrots would the feds offer kwg to put thier rail line inside the port authority. This will make the transportation proplem solved. The ring companies would have thier access problem in and out of the ring solved. All the ring company shares would then pop...
Trade like a pro: Leverage real-time discussions and market-moving ideas to outperform.
Hot Features
Premium
