John, not sure on what basis you can claim that "Geological/Geophysical etc work comes to a halt on the ground". There is no reason to believe this, and in fact, as soon I read your post, spoke with Noront to confirm that everything is progressing without halt or interruption, as I belived it should be - the NR would have stated if there the lab issue was going to cause others delays.

In fact, the person I spoke with at Noront had read your post and was wondering why you would say this, as it is incorrect.

Regards,

B.