".......but surely an all season's or even a winter road constucted by Noront may result in jobs over a much longer period of time. However, if an all season's road is definitely in the cards for Cliffs, why should Noront spend any funds on a pipeline or a winter road to Webequie?"

First off, G, Noront is not going to construct a road. They have come out in support of a road being constructed by the Ontario Gov't or a group of First Nation Communities, or a combination of some sort involving both. They are prepared to contribute 25% of the cost. If CLF elects to participate in this plan, the slurry line is of no benefit to them. They will likely have to push for an extension of the road from the junction to their minesite. If successful, this could negate the need for Noront to build the pipeline.

In the unlikely event that a different route is chosen, such as a north/south route out to Nakina, That would undoubtedly negate any need Noront had to either build a slurry line, or contribute to the all season road to Pickle Lake. They would, no doubt, be called on to contribute in some way towards this route, but they would only base their contribution on the need to move Nickel concentrate.

The above does not consider the need for a rail link, but even with a positive decision for rail, a road is first necessary.

These factors are all going to affect our situation come April, and in the interim are going to become clearer. As it stands thing look rosy for Noront, but as things unfold, there is huge upside for each segment of news that comes out on this subject.

Best regards

K