Nunavut Communities Weigh in on Production Increase at Arctic Mine

As reported by CBS News, Baffinland Iron Mines’ request to boost its production again this year at its Mary River mine, is getting mixed reaction from some Nunavut communities. The request — which, if approved, would allow the company to mine up to six million tonnes of ore from its Mary River mine in 2022 — is now before the Nunavut Impact Review Board (NIRB).

Baffinland says that more than 1,000 people will be laid off starting next month if the request is not approved. The NIRB is soliciting written comments from communities, Inuit organizations and other stakeholders about whether the request should be granted.

The hamlet of Pond Inlet, nearest the mine, is in favour, as is the hamlet of Arctic Bay. Both hamlet councils passed motions in July to support the temporary production increase.

Baffinland was initially given temporary permission in 2018 to increase its annual production to six million tonnes. That was renewed in subsequent years, but expired at the end of 2021. Baffinland will have until August 19 to submit its final reply to the written submissions and the community roundtable discussions.