August 29, 2024

August 29, 2024

Yukon prepares for busy, expensive few months at site of ore slide before freeze-up (Canadian Underwriter)

Yukon is preparing for an intensive and costly period of cleanup and stabilization at the site of a major ore slide near Minto Mine before winter freeze-up. The government is coordinating efforts to remove debris, manage environmental risks, and ensure worker safety. These activities are urgent to prevent further damage and complications from freezing conditions. The costs and challenges of the cleanup are expected to be significant.

  • Major cyanide spill at Eagle Gold mine in Yukon requires urgent environmental protection measures before winter.
  • Victoria Gold, the mine owner, is in court-ordered receivership following the containment failure of about two million tonnes of cyanide-laced rock.
  • Priorities include installing groundwater monitoring wells, increasing water storage, and building a protective berm for heap stability.
  • Estimated cleanup costs range from $50 million for immediate work to potentially $150 million total.
  • Yukon government is funding the initial remediation efforts, providing $15 million to start the cleanup work.

Victoria Gold Corp., a major Yukon gold mining company, owes over $140 million to creditors, including various suppliers, contractors, and government entities, according to a recent filing. The company has faced financial challenges due to operational costs, delays, and declining gold prices. The creditor list reveals the scale of its financial difficulties, with significant debts owed to both local and international companies.

  • Victoria Gold Corp. Debt: Owes over $140 million to creditors.
  • Creditors Include: Suppliers, contractors, government entities, and local and international companies.
  • Financial Challenges: Due to high operational costs, delays, and declining gold prices.
  • Creditor List Significance: Highlights the extent of the company's financial difficulties.

Yukon officials ‘lose confidence’ in mining company after failure to manage cyanide cleanup (Environmental Science and Engineering Magazine)

Yukon officials have lost confidence in a mining company after its failure to manage a cyanide cleanup at a mine site. The company was unable to adequately handle the environmental risks associated with cyanide contamination, raising concerns about its management practices and commitment to safety. The officials are now questioning the company's ability to comply with regulations and are considering further actions to protect the environment and public health.

  • Government intervention: Yukon government lost confidence in Victoria Gold Corporation's ability to manage cyanide cleanup at Eagle Mine, leading to court-appointed receivership.
  • Environmental impact: Heap leach failure resulted in cyanide contamination, with 68 dead fish reported in Haggart Creek.
  • Mitigation efforts: Diversion pipe extended to Haggart Creek, significantly reducing cyanide levels in the water.
  • Corporate consequences: Victoria Gold's CEO terminated, and PricewaterhouseCoopers appointed as receiver to control company assets.
  • Ongoing investigation: Yukon government establishing Independent Review Board to identify causes of the heap leach failure.

Snowline Gold Expands Valley Footprint (Kelowna Daily Courier)

Snowline Gold Corp. has expanded its Valley zone at the Rogue Project in Yukon, reporting 4,350 meters of drilling with an average of 1.6 grams per tonne of gold. At its Jupiter target within the Einarson Project, the company drilled 63 meters averaging 6.9 grams per tonne of gold. These results highlight significant gold mineralization and suggest strong exploration potential for Snowline Gold's projects in Yukon.

  • Expansion at Rogue Project: 4,350 meters drilled at Valley zone, averaging 1.6 grams per tonne of gold.
  • Jupiter Target Results: 63 meters drilled, averaging 6.9 grams per tonne of gold at Einarson Project.
  • Significance: Indicates strong gold mineralization and exploration potential for Snowline Gold's Yukon projects.

Snowline Gold expands Valley (Canadian Mining Journal)

Snowline Gold has reported significant drill results from its Yukon projects. At the Valley zone of the Rogue Project, it drilled 435 meters with an average grade of 1.6 grams per tonne (g/t) gold, indicating extensive gold mineralization. At the Jupiter target within the Einarson Project, it reported a high-grade interval of 6.3 meters at 6.9 g/t gold. These findings expand the company's exploration footprint and suggest strong potential for future gold production in the area.

  • Significant gold discoveries: Snowline Gold reported promising drilling results at both the Valley deposit and Jupiter target, expanding known mineralization.
  • Valley deposit: Hole V-24-077 intersected 435.0 metres of 1.61 g/t gold, suggesting potential resource expansion.
  • Jupiter target: Hole J-24-022 returned 6.88 g/t gold over 6.3 metres, indicating a wider gold system.
  • Ongoing exploration: Drilling continues with multiple rigs across various targets, with over 21,000 metres of assays pending.
  • Resource estimate: Valley target currently has an indicated resource of 4.1 million oz. gold at 1.66 g/t and an inferred resource of 3.26 million oz. at 1.25 g/t.

Whitehorse Blue Bin To Provide New Recycling Services (City of Whitehorse)

The City of Whitehorse is expanding its Blue Bin program to include new recycling services. Starting in September, residents can recycle additional items like plastic bags, glass jars, and Styrofoam packaging. The program aims to improve waste diversion and environmental sustainability. Residents are encouraged to follow updated guidelines to ensure proper recycling.

  • Whitehorse Blue Bin selected to provide new recycling services in Whitehorse.
  • New temporary recycling depot at City's Waste Management Facility opening on September 10.
  • Temporary curbside recycling program for eligible households starting in December.
  • More details about services, fees, schedules, and sorting guide to be shared soon.
  • Contact provided for Matthew Cameron, Manager of Strategic Communications, for further information.

CCF concerned that Whitehorse ‘civility’ policy breaches Charter rights (Canadian Constitution Foundation)

The Canadian Constitution Foundation (CCF) argues that Whitehorse's civility policy breaches the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The policy, intended to promote respectful behavior at city council meetings, is criticized for potentially infringing on freedom of expression and stifling dissenting voices. The CCF calls for a review to ensure the policy aligns with constitutional rights.

  • Charter rights concern: The Canadian Constitution Foundation (CCF) warns that Whitehorse's new civility policy may violate freedom of expression rights under the Charter.
  • Restrictive measures: The policy includes bans on certain attire, signs, and documents deemed "disrespectful" or "inappropriate," as well as prohibiting "microaggressions."
  • CCF argues these restrictions are unreasonable and may hinder citizens' participation in local democracy.
  • The foundation urges Whitehorse to amend the policy by September 16 to ensure all voices can be heard.
  • CCF emphasizes Canadians' right to express themselves at city council meetings, even if council members find the expressions offensive or insulting.

Group threatening Whitehorse with lawsuit ‘strongly’ considers moving forward (Peterborough Examiner)

The Canadian Constitution Foundation (CCF) is considering a lawsuit against Whitehorse if the city does not revise its new civility policy by September 16. The CCF argues the policy infringes on freedom of expression under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, citing its restrictions on signs and attire. The policy prohibits offensive or discriminatory content but is criticized by the CCF for being overly restrictive. Legal expert Richard Moon notes that while the policy might limit expression, it must balance orderly conduct in meetings. The city has not yet responded to the CCF's concerns.

  • Canadian Constitution Foundation (CCF): Considering a lawsuit against Whitehorse if the city does not amend its civility policy.
  • Legal Basis: CCF argues the policy violates the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, specifically freedom of expression.
  • Deadline: The city council has until September 16 to revise the policy before legal action is taken.
  • Policy Details: Prohibits signs and attire with offensive or discriminatory content; concerns raised about its restrictiveness.
  • CCF's Position: Claims the policy unduly limits expression, including minority viewpoints, which are protected under the Charter.
  • Expert Opinion: Law professor Richard Moon acknowledges the policy may restrict expression but emphasizes the need for balance between order and free speech in meetings.
  • Current Status: The city has not yet responded to the CCF's concerns.

Ombudsman recommends some changes for Yukon Human Rights Commission (Yukon News)

The Yukon Ombudsman has recommended changes for the Yukon Human Rights Commission to improve its operations and effectiveness. The suggestions include better handling of complaints, clearer communication with the public, and enhanced transparency in processes. These recommendations aim to strengthen the commission's ability to protect human rights and ensure fairness for all Yukoners seeking redress.

  • Yukon Human Rights Commission (YHRC) investigated by ombudsman due to complaints about unfair delays, processes, and bias towards early settlements.
  • Investigation revealed challenges in YHRC's operations, including funding issues, high staff turnover, and pressure for early settlements.
  • Ombudsman recommended policy and procedural changes, including creation of written policies, new settlement evaluation procedures, and implementation of case management software.
  • YHRC accepted the ombudsman's recommendations but expressed concerns about some characterizations in the report.
  • Additional recommendations made to the Yukon Department of Justice for legislative amendments and increased support for YHRC.

'Late and millions of dollars over budget': Yukon Party slams housing project (Yukon News)

The Yukon Party has criticized a major housing project for being late and significantly over budget. The project, which was initially planned to address housing shortages, is now facing delays and escalating costs. The Yukon Party argues that the mismanagement of the project reflects poorly on the government's handling of public funds and raises concerns about its effectiveness in solving the housing crisis.

  • Budget overrun: The Hearth housing project's budget increased from an initial $16 million to $42.1 million due to unforeseen regulatory changes.
  • Delayed completion: Originally scheduled for fall 2022, the project is now expected to open in late winter 2026.
  • New federal funding of nearly $20 million was announced for the project, in addition to $12.9 million from the Yukon government.
  • The Yukon Party criticizes the government for inaccurate budget and timeline assertions, claiming the project is 4 years late and significantly over budget.
  • Questions arise about the initial building assessment's scope, which did not identify fire code and zoning issues.

Statue of prominent Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin leader gifted to First Nation in Dawson City, Yukon (CBC)

A statue of Chief Isaac, a prominent figure in Dawson City’s history, has been unveiled. The statue honors Chief Isaac, a significant Indigenous leader who played a key role in the region’s history. The unveiling is part of broader efforts to recognize and celebrate Indigenous contributions and heritage in the community.

  • Chief Isaac statue unveiled in Dawson City, Yukon, honoring the influential Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in leader during the Klondike Gold Rush.
  • The statue symbolizes the strong presence and history of the Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in First Nation in the area.
  • Created by local artists Halin de Repentigny and Jake Armstrong, the project was funded by M2 Mining as a gesture of recognition to the First Nation.
  • The statue aims to preserve cultural memory and educate future generations about Chief Isaac's contributions.
  • A plaque recognizing past and contemporary Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in leaders will be added to the statue later in the year.

Yellowknife cadets broaden skills in Whitehorse (NNSL Media)

Yellowknife cadets recently expanded their skills during a training trip to Whitehorse. The program provided cadets with opportunities to enhance their abilities through various activities and workshops, contributing to their personal and professional development. The experience aimed to broaden their competencies and prepare them for future challenges.

  • Cadet summer training in Whitehorse involved over 200 sea, air, and army cadets, including participants from Yellowknife.
  • The program ran from July 29 to August 23, 2024, offering diverse training experiences for youth aged 12-19.
  • Nadia Bonhomme, a 16-year-old Yellowknife cadet, highlighted the collaborative atmosphere among cadets from across Canada.
  • The Yellowknife Elks Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron provides opportunities for skill development, including aviation courses and drill instruction.
  • Progressing cadets are preparing for their power pilot exam, opening up future opportunities in aviation.

Senior leadership appointments in the Government of Yukon public service (Government of Yukon)

Premier Ranj Pillai announced three senior leadership appointments effective September 9:

  • Dennis Berry as Deputy Minister of Environment.
  • Paul Moore as interim Deputy Minister of Energy, Mines, and Resources for six months, overseeing various portfolios while Lauren Haney handles others.
  • Philippe Mollet as President of Yukon Liquor Corporation, Lotteries Yukon, and Deputy Minister of the French Language Services Directorate.
  • Senior leadership appointments: Premier Ranj Pillai announced three key appointments in the Government of Yukon public service, effective September 9.
  • The appointments aim to ensure continued strong leadership and uninterrupted operations, particularly in light of the ongoing Eagle Mine emergency response.
  • Deputy Ministers are the most senior public servants in the Yukon government, responsible for departmental budgets, operations, and program development.