Why was this information not provided to the EAO?:
The further assessment order laid out the information PBM would need to provide to continue development of the project.
Between 2016 and 2021, the company submitted three drafts applications which did not meet the requirements of the order.
To address the lack of progress, the EAO proposed options for progressing or completing the further assessment process and engaged with PBM, Lake Babine, Gitanyow, Gitxsan and Yekooche First Nations.
The consensus option with all parties was a preference for or a non-objection to the Further Assessment Order being rescinded. The Further Assessment Order was rescinded on Dec. 2, 2021, and the decision materials from 2015 were resubmitted to ministers for a decision on whether to issue an environmental assessment certificate for the Morrison Copper/Gold Project.
However, because the company has not submitted additional information to demonstrate that risks to water quality and fish can be suitably mitigated by the Morrison Copper/Gold Project the ministers have decided not to issue an environment assessment certificate.
Proposed gold mine near Smithers fails environmental review - Prince George Citizen