COPPER-GOLD: SSN says “no” to KGHM’s Ajax development

BRITISH COLUMBIA – The Stk'emlúpsemc te Secwépemc Nation (SSN) is withholding its  consent for the development of the Ajax copper-gold mine. The project in its proposed location at Pípsell (3 km from Kamloops) is in opposition to the SSN land use objectives. The SSN represents the communities of Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc and Skeetchestn Indian Band. The bands have an irreplaceable historical, cultural and spiritual connection to Pípsell. The Trout Children Stseptékwll oral history is inseparably connected to the place of the proposed Ajax mine site. It encapsulates and expresses the human connection of Stk'emlúpsemc te Secwépemc to Pípsell. The SSN joint council, composed of the elected leadership of Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc and Skeetchestn Indian Band, made its decision in accordance with SSN's laws, traditions, customs and land tenure systems supported by the evidence and assessments as presented in the Pípsell report and SSN panel recommendations report. The Ajax project is owned 80% by KGHM International and 20% by Abacus Mining and Exploration. A feasibility study has been completed for Ajax suggesting the resources would support a 65,000-t/d open pit and mill producing 58,000 tonnes of copper and 125,000 oz of gold in concentrates annually. The SSN is on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Stkemlupsemc-te-Secwepemc-Nation-SSN-821149021255499/.