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Mining

QSA's Week in Mining (#18, 2025)

CNSC signals regulatory evolution for new nuclear; CITT continues silicon metal import measures; New StatsCan index data for engineering services released;

QSA's Week in Mining (#18, 2025)

Good morning! This is Queen Street Analytics' weekly roundup of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news concerning metals and non-metals miners, explorers and prospectors. Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

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Start Date: 2025-05-04
End Date: 2025-05-10

Top Headlines

Main Stories

CNSC President Outlines Regulatory Readiness for New Nuclear and Mineral Extraction

Pierre Tremblay, President of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, addressed the 2025 Canadian Nuclear Association conference on May 5, outlining the CNSC’s approach to regulating both existing and emerging nuclear technologies. Tremblay detailed efforts to expedite reviews, manage regulatory burden, and maintain workforce competency while prioritizing safety. He referenced the recent licence issuance for Ontario Power Generation’s BWRX-300 reactor at Darlington, the first such power reactor construction licence in Canada in over 50 years. Tremblay noted the CNSC’s engagement with international partners such as the US NRC and UK ONR, and indicated that amendments to Nuclear Security Regulations are being explored to reflect new technological and security realities. The address also covered evolving Indigenous engagement and the Federal Court’s direction regarding Indigenous consultation on nuclear projects.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
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Canadian International Trade Tribunal Continues Import Measures on Silicon Metal

On April 30, the Canadian International Trade Tribunal continued, without amendment, its order on silicon metal imports from China, following expiry review RR-2024-002. The order concerns silicon metal containing between 89.00% and 99.99% silicon by weight, and found that lifting the order would likely injure the domestic industry. The existing measures, first imposed in 2013, will remain in force, affecting importers and domestic producers of silicon metal.

Sources: Gazette, Part I: www.gazette.gc.ca

Statistics Canada published the latest data for the Architectural, Engineering and Related Services Price Index (2018=100) for the first quarter of 2025. The index offers updated pricing data relevant to service providers and contractors involved in mining sector development, infrastructure, and engineering services. The release provides industry participants with current benchmarks for project costing and inflation tracking.

Sources: Open Government Data Set: www.statcan.gc.ca

Important Updates

Secondary Stories

First Extraction of Gallium in North America Announced by Federal Minister

François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, announced the first extraction of gallium in North America, highlighting its significance for Canada’s critical minerals supply chain.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Jamil Jivani Expresses Support for Darlington Nuclear License Renewal

Jamil Jivani, MP, communicated to the CNSC his support for the renewal of the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station Power Reactor Operating License, referencing the importance of the nuclear sector and its workforce.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Seamus O'Regan Affirms Mining and Critical Minerals as Future Priorities

Seamus O'Regan, MP, emphasized the strategic role of mining and critical minerals in Canada’s future industrial landscape.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Provincial Announcements

Ontario Approves Construction of First G7 Small Modular Reactor at Darlington

The Ontario government sanctioned Ontario Power Generation's construction of the first of four small modular reactors at Darlington, with full buildout expected to generate 1,200 MW and support up to 18,000 jobs over the project’s life.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

Ontario Penalizes Unlicensed Aggregate Extraction in Barry’s Bay

Crosstown Construction Inc. was fined $187,500 for operating a sand and gravel pit without the required licence under the Aggregate Resources Act, following an investigation by the Ministry of Natural Resources.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

Ontario Minister of Energy and Mines Schedules Media Availability on Energy Developments

Minister Stephen Lecce planned remarks and a media session in Clarington on May 8, focusing on the province’s energy initiatives.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

Public Officials' Social Media

MP Jasraj Singh Hallan Critiques Federal Energy Policy and Praises Alberta’s Sector

Jasraj Singh Hallan, MP, stated Alberta's energy sector continues to drive over $120 billion in economic activity, despite federal policies.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Jasraj Singh Hallan Opposes Federal Oil and Gas Production Caps

Jasraj Singh Hallan, MP, reiterated on social media his opposition to Bill C-69 and the oil and gas production cap.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

What We're Reading This Week

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