We don't disagree. In fact we are saying the same thing, I think. It is a big forest, but everyone is looking at each tree by itself.

At the end of the day, there has to be a solution that benefits all players. This is not a stand alone mine that will operate for 8-10 years. ROF area will likely still be producing 200 years from now, and as such all parties must be onside at the beginning.

The local FN communities involved are primarily a federal issue. Any support forthcoming from them will involve assistance aimed more towards the communities than towards the mining companies. This can only be accomplished with the east/west route.

In truth, although the prov gov't has come out in support of the north/south route, it is likely that support comes from the fact that this is the only route that has been formally proposed.

By the same token, I do not think a north/south road is practical. There has been untold discussion on the merits of rail as opposed to road, and considering the length of time this area will produce product, rail is really the only alternative.

I have long felt that in the end result of all the negotiations, in order to benefit all parties involved, that we will see an east/west road starting in 2013, with rail from the south to follow.

Noront is in an enviable position because of recent events. They have a feasibility study basically ready to go, but has been successfully delayed to await statements from others. Let these others sort things out and then they can move to their best advantage.

K