Public Notice
Côte-Nord Mining Railway Project – Federal Funding Available

December 27, 2012

The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency is making available $91,800 to support public participation in the federal environmental assessment of the Côte-Nord Mining Railway Project in Québec.

This funding will support participation in upcoming steps of the environmental assessment such as consultation related to the Environmental Impact Statement and consultation on the draft Environmental Assessment Report.

To apply for funding or for more information on the project and the environmental assessment process, visit the Agency's website (registry reference number 80006) or contact the Participant Funding Program by writing to PFP.PAFP@ceaa-acee.gc.ca or by calling 1-866-582-1884.

Applications received by January 28, 2013 will be considered. Funding recipients will be announced later.

As part of the strengthened and modernized Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 (CEAA 2012) put in place to support the government's Responsible Resource Development Initiative, the Agency is conducting a federal environmental assessment of this project.

Côte-Nord Mining Railway Company Inc. is proposing the construction and operation of a railway network in the Côte-Nord and Labrador regions. The railway right-of-way (ROW) will extend between Sept-Îles in Quebec and Wabush/Labrador City area in Labrador, where the ROW will join the Tshiuetin Railway. The project would include handling and storage facilities located at the Port of Sept-Îles in Pointe-Noire. The ore will be transported daily on an up to 550 km railway in trains containing up to 250 cars and five locomotives. Administrative buildings and railway maintenance facility and equipment are also planned in Pointe-Noire. The construction phase of the project should begin in early 2014 and is believed to require between one year and a half to three years. The operation phase is expected to be progressive, starting in 2016.

This project is being assessed using a science-based approach. If the project is permitted to proceed to the next phase, it will continue to be subject to Canada's strong environmental laws, rigorous enforcement and follow-up and increased fines.