Notice of Impact Assessment Decision with Reasons

Ottawa — December 20, 2021 — The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (the Agency) has decided that an impact assessment is required for the Upper Beaver Gold Project (the Project) proposed by Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (the Proponent) located in Ontario.

In accordance subsection 16(2) of the Impact Assessment Act (IAA), the Agency has taken into account each of the following factors:

  • the Proponent's Detailed Project Description, and its Response to the Summary of Issues. The Agency is satisfied that, for the purpose of determining whether an impact assessment is required, this information provided by the Proponent adequately characterizes the potential effects of the Project;
  • the possibility that carrying out the Project may cause adverse effects within federal jurisdiction and adverse direct and incidental effects;
  • adverse impacts that the Project may have on the rights of the Indigenous Peoples of Canada recognized and affirmed by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982; and
  • comments received from the public, Indigenous groups, federal authorities, and other jurisdictions in relation to the Project. These comments were reflected in the Summary of Issues.

The Strategic Assessment of Climate Change, released in July 2020, was recognized as a strategic assessment conducted under section 95 of the IAA. It applies to projects designated under the IAA.

The Agency is not aware of any other relevant regional or strategic assessments, or any relevant studies conducted or plans prepared by another jurisdiction, in respect of the region in which the Project would be located.

In light of the factors considered, the Agency is of the view that the Project may cause adverse effects within federal jurisdiction, including potential effects on fish and fish habitat, migratory birds, and changes to the health, social, economic and environmental conditions of Indigenous people. The Project may also adversely impact the exercise of rights of Indigenous peoples. As a result, the Agency has decided that an impact assessment under the IAA is required.

For further information on this impact assessment decision, please contact:

Upper Beaver Gold Project
Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
55 York Street, 6th Floor
Toronto, ON M5J 1R7
Telephone: 416-952-1576
Email: UpperBeaver@iaac-aeic.gc.ca

Document Reference Number: 55

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