Notice of Agency's Opinion on Whether an Impact Assessment is Required

June 6, 2024 — The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (the Agency) is of the opinion that an impact assessment is warranted for the Strange Lake Rare Earth Mining Project (the project) proposed by Torngat Metals Ltd. (the proponent), located in Quebec.

In applying the measures outlined in the Statement on the Interim Administration of the Impact Assessment Act Pending Legislative Amendments, the Agency has considered the following:

• the Detailed Project Description, and the Response to the Summary of Issues, as submitted by the proponent;
• the possibility that carrying out the project may cause adverse effects within federal jurisdiction and adverse direct and incidental effects;
• adverse impacts that the project may have on the rights of Indigenous Peoples of Canada recognized and affirmed by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982;
• comments received by the Agency from the public, Indigenous groups, federal authorities, and other jurisdictions in relation to the project, as reflected in the Summary of Issues; and
• the October 13, 2023, decision of the Supreme Court of Canada on the constitutionality of the Impact Assessment Act.

In light of the factors considered, the Agency is of the opinion that the project may cause adverse effects within federal jurisdiction, including effects on fish and fish habitat, migratory birds, and Indigenous Peoples. Potential impacts on Indigenous Peoples include impacts on current use of lands and resources, physical and cultural heritage, site that is of historical or archaeological significance as well as changes to health and social conditions. As a result, the Agency is of the opinion that an impact assessment is warranted for the project.

For further information on this impact assessment, please contact:

Strange Lake Rare Earth Mining Project
Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
901-1550, avenue d'Estimauville
Québec, Quebec G1J 0C1
Tel: 418-649-6444
Email: StrangeLake@iaac-aeic.gc.ca