News Release Archive
NATURAL RESOURCES--Call for Coal Exploration Proposals
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Natural Resources Minister Ken MacAskill has announced a call for
exploration proposals that could lead to development of a surface
coal mine near Little Pond at the western end of the Sydney
coalfield.
Mining was carried out in the 1950s in this area, but only a
small part of it was reclaimed and many spoil piles, trenches and
pits remain at the site.
"A new surface mine would address local concerns about security
and safety," said Mr. MacAskill. "It would also provide several
jobs, and ultimately the site would be properly reclaimed and
left safe and attractive when mining is completed."
Most of the area is Crown land and was formerly under lease to
the Cape Breton Development Corp. Devco released its 13 claims in
the Merritt Point area last spring.
The Department of Natural Resources will accept proposals from
qualified bidders for an exploration licence until Dec. 15. A
decision on submissions will be made within 90 days of the
closing.
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Contact: Blain Henshaw
Natural Resources
902-424-5252
E-mail: bwhensha@gov.ns.ca
ngr Nov. 21, 1997 2:07 p.m.
