Following an extensive environmental assessment by an independent review panel, the federal government rejected Taseko Mines Ltd.’s proposed Prosperity Mine Project. Just three months later the company re-filed another proposal dubbing it the “New Prosperity” project.
In its rejection the government had indicated that it would consider a new submission if the proponent found a way to address all the issues identified in the panel report. The proposal really only addresses one of the issues and doesn’t do it in a serious manner. The new proposal would not drain Teztan Biny (Fish Lake) and would conserve a small amount more of stream habitat. The future of the lake would not, however be good as it would be sandwiched between a massive open pit and a massive tailings impoundment.
The new proposal was submitted without any additional consultation with the Tsilhqot’in National Government or the Esketemc Band of the Secwepemc Nation – both of which have opposed the project. On November 8 the government indicated it would review the application using a second review panel. MiningWatch will once again work with the TNG, Esketemc, and others opposed to one of Canada’s most problematic mining projects. For more information visit the MiningWatch web site or the site of First Nations Women Advocating Responsible Mining.