Dear Editor,

The recent confirmation that IAMGOLD received all necessary approvals to start construction at their Côté Gold project site near Gogama was most welcomed news. This development will greatly benefit Nickel Belt – Greater Sudbury and Northern Ontario socially and economically as we rebuild our economy post pandemic. The last few months have certainly been difficult and receiving this positive announcement could not have come at a better time. I’m confident in saying the residents of Gogama are happy this project is moving forward, and I thank them for their patience over the last 8 years during the planning period.

I commend IAMGOLD for taking proactive steps to proceed with open dialogue and work collaboratively to develop synergies with Mattagami First Nation, Flying Post First Nation and all levels of government. Bringing this project to fruition will create up to 1300 jobs during the construction phase as well as 450 full time jobs when fully operational. This will have a positive economic ripple effect for surrounding communities and other sectors.

Establishing Côté Gold further exemplifies the capacity and sustainability of our mining service and supply sector and the calibre of our mining industry in the North. This development will also help create new partnership opportunities and will foster favourable conditions to attract other investors and developers from varied global markets.

Since being elected in 2015, as past member of the Natural Resources Committee and past Chair and current member of the Northern Ontario caucus, I have and continue to be a strong advocate in showcasing Nickel Belt – Greater Sudbury’s prominence on the global scale and have helped facilitate opportunities for partnership and growth in relation to mining. In 2017, I was humbled to assist with the signing of a letter of intent between The Greater Sudbury Development Corporation (GSDC), MineConnect (formerly SAMSSA) and the State of Guerrero (Mexico) to work in collaboration on priorities such as job and wealth creation, export development, promoting investment and continued economic diversification and much more.

Nickel Belt – Greater Sudbury has become synonymous with mining research and development (R&D) within its post secondary institutions and research centres like NORCAT. As Chair of the Canadian Section of ParlAmericas I frequently hear from my fellow members that Northern Ontario is recognized for it’s mining innovation. Our government has made historic investments in R&D in our region which has facilitated the ability to remain competitive and at the forefront of technological advancements. Organizations, small and medium enterprises, students and stakeholders can feel confident knowing that their innovative projects will contribute to an ever-growing industry.

Knowing our region will be a part of a $1.3 billion mining development is very exciting. I applaud the extent in which IAMGOLD has incorporated green technology, sustainable practices in collaboration with the First Nation communities to achieve this goal. This is a testament to the robust commitment the mining industry has towards the communities in which they operate in
and the role Governments have in creating legislative framework that enhance mining operations. Canadian mining companies continue to show leadership and influence safety, development and economic competitiveness around the world.

Wishing all partners much success moving forward and I am greatly looking forward to seeing the positive impact and community engagement as a result of this operation. It was a pleasure to work with the team at IAMGOLD over the last 5 years on this project and I look forward to future opportunities for growth and development in Northern Ontario.

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Important links

MP Serré in support of Côté Gold Project in Gogama
MP Serré elected Chair of Canadian Section of ParlAmericas
The Minerals and Metals Policy of the Government of Canada
Canadian Mines and Minerals Plan
IAMGOLD to Proceed with Construction of the Côté Gold Project in Ontario, Canada

Contact

Kaylie Dudgeon
Special Assistant, MP Nickel Belt Marc G. Serré
705-507-2416
[email protected]