On March 20, I sent an email to the CEAA, asking them, "As an investor in Noront, I was wondering if and when we could expect some information regarding the permitting and approval of the Eagle's Nest Project?"

Well today I finally got a reply, even though a lot has happened since my email was sent.

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Thank you for your interest in the federal comprehensive study of the Noront Resources Ltd. (the proponent) Eagle’s Nest Project (the Project). The purpose of this email is to respond to your request for information on the current status of the federal environmental assessment (EA) process, timelines and permitting associated with the Project.

Current Status

On December 20, 2013, the proponent released their draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) report. A copy of this report is available on the company’s website at http://norontresources.com/?page_id=83. The proponent’s draft EIS is not a formal step in the federal EA process. If you have any comments on the proponent’s draft EIS report you are encouraged to share your comments with them, and copy the Agency so we are also aware of your comments.

Next Steps 

Once ready, the proponent will prepare their final EIS, based on the information requirements defined in the EIS Guidelines and comments received on their draft EIS. Aboriginal groups and public participants will have an opportunity to comment on a summary of the proponent’s final EIS. The proponent’s final EIS and summary will be posted on the Canadian Environmental Assessment Registry (http://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/050/documents-eng.cfm?evaluation=63925).

The Agency will review all comments received and will prepare a Comprehensive Study Report.  This report will identify conclusions and recommendations regarding the potential environmental effects of the Project, the proposed measures to avoid or mitigate those effects, and the significance of any remaining adverse environmental effects.  Once prepared, there will be a public participation opportunity, which will be announced at a later date. 

The Minister of the Environment (the Minister) will take into consideration the Comprehensive Study Report and comments received prior to issuing the EA decision statement. Federal departments and agencies will not issue any authorizations enabling the Project to proceed prior to the Minister’s decision.

If you have any additional questions please contact me at 416-952-5016 or by email at eaglesnest@ceaa-acee.gc.ca.

Thank you,