A Theory I have nothing of substance to back up the following. It's just a theory, from trying to read between the lines of today's coverage:
What we witnessed today may have been the result of professional jealousy: a "clash of egos" between Mr. Farquharson of Strathcona Mineral Services and Mr. Quartermain. Consider <a href=https://mininghalloffame.ca/inductees/d-f/graham_farquharson>Mr. Farquharson's bio</a> alongside <a href=https://pretivm.com/corporate/management/default.aspx>that of Mr. Quartermain</a>. Lacking any more information than what has already been posted, I wonder if Mr. Farquharson brought his admittedly highly respected opinion to the table as an advisor, encountered professional or personal differences in attempting to put his mark on the project, and instead of continuing to work toward a constructive outcome in a situation that the fellow perceived as a "challenge to his integrity or reputation," he decided to take his ball and go home: "It's my way or the highway." In such a hypothetical situation, the person who leaves the trail of disruption might feel smug, long term consequences notwithstanding.
To repeat: I don't know if there is anything to this. It's just a vibe, reading between the lines. My takeaway is that there is nothing to justify the blow we took on the chin today. This is probably the most highly prospective project in the world today, and a lot of people would like to have their names associated with it.
Onward!