Module 3: "Mary River Iron Mine Map" and "Excerpts from the Qikiqtani Inuit Association Web Site"

Mining holds great promise to help pave the way to Nunavut’s economic self-reliance....

…the minerals industry plays a substantial role in developing Nunavut’s infrastructure.

With new transportation networks such as roads, port facilities, and airstrips, Nunavut will be able to provide easier and cheaper access to not only support expanding exploration programs and new mining development, but also lower the cost of living for communities.

With new transportation networks such as roads, port facilities, and airstrips, Nunavut will be able to provide easier and cheaper access to not only support expanding exploration programs and new mining development, but also lower the cost of living for communities.

The Mary River iron ore deposits were first discovered by mining prospectors in 1960s.

However, given the area and lack of transportation for a bulk commodity like iron, the cost of further exploration and development made it unrealistic to open a mine.

However, given the area and lack of transportation for a bulk commodity like iron, the cost of further exploration and development made it unrealistic to open a mine.

Mining of Deposit No.1 is expected to produce approximately 18 million tons of iron each year with operations estimated to last for 21 years.

Trains would also be used to transport people, supplies, and fuel.

Once transported to site, the ore would be stockpiled at Steensby Inlet.

Here is a summary of the key concerns that have been raised by Inuit and the QIA up to this point:
• The potential for contamination of water from sewage and fuel spills throughout the area.

• Inuit must benefit financially from the revenues of the Project.