RE: xstrata taking their timeWhen you look through Xstrata's latest semi-annual report (as of June 30 2011) its clear they have lots on the go and maybe some things like currently operating mines that were damaged by flooding have been higher priorities.
However, it does seem like they are well aware of the potential benefits of operating in Canada (recent acquisitions, etc) so I surmise they're going to want to get going on Donkin to support their 50% growth target for 2014.
https://www.xstrata.com/content/assets/pdf/xta-ir2011_en.pdf