Goodheart et all, I know nothing about the permitting process but just applying my
own logic to our situation:

Drilling is one thing but if one is going to disturb a large quantity and/or large
surface area then an amendment would have to be necessary, if not a completely new
one. Note that this ammendment may also include a deep shaft.

"Is this the beginning?" It depends on what one wants to define as begining. I
prefer to call it a preparation to the begining.

What it means to me is that the company is moving towards preparatory documentation
with the anticipation that mine construction will commence.
When? Your guess is as good as mine. Wheels of bureaucracy often move very slowly
per example of these few years.

What this confirms for me is that the company feels that construction WILL occur, it
is just a matter of time.

Perhaps an application or a permit in hand would easy things once one is applying for financing. If I were to throw cash at a mine construction plan then I would prefer to see a permit. More assurance and safety to me and my investment.