Suspending Nunavut uranium mine a wise decision, WWF-Canada says
IQALUIT, August 8, 2016 — WWF-Canada issues the following statement from Paul Crowley, vice-president of Arctic conservation, in response to the federal government’s decision to uphold the recommendation from the Nunavut Impact Review Board (NIRB) that AREVA’s proposed Kiggavik uranium mine project not proceed at this time. The proposed mine site is in the Kivalliq region of Nunavut, about 80 kilometres west of Baker Lake and amid key caribou habitat.
“WWF-Canada agrees with the assessment from Carolyn Bennett, federal Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, that the absence of a start date of the project, combined with the uncertainty associated with the direct and cumulative effects on wildlife, particularly the Qamanirjuaq herd of barren-ground caribou, warrant suspending AREVA’s proposed Kiggavik uranium mine project at this time.
The Qamanirjuaq herd is currently in a worrying declining trend, with the last population survey indicating 264,700 caribou, down from 349,000 in 2008 and 496,000 in 1994. Further declines will bring the sustainable harvest level below the basic needs levels for the communities that harvest the Qamanirjuaq herd, which would be a major issue for both the herd and harvesters. These factors make Bennett’s decision to uphold the NIRB’s recommendation even more important, as the herd will not be exposed to disturbances from this project during this period of decline.
Excess noise from exploration and increased plane traffic, as well as dust from mine sites, can disturb caribou, especially during the sensitive time of calving. Increased stress levels of mothers lead to calve abandonment and lower species population growth, which can be especially detrimental to populations already in a decline.
WWF-Canada recognizes the efforts of groups such as the Kivalliq Wildlife Board, the Beverly and Qamanirjuaq Caribou Management Board, and local hunters and trappers organizations for their efforts in the public hearing and technical review processes. Many community members effectively advocated for the needs of the caribou of this region. They are best placed to convey the importance of the Qamanirjuaq herd to the local people who depend on them.”
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For further information
Philippe Devos, director of communications and media specialist, [email protected], +1 416-453-0092