Arviq HTO, the hunting and trapping association in Naujaat, is urging the federal government to pause the Steensby railway project to take into account more recent environmental research findings.
In January, Baffinland Iron Mines announced that it had obtained all necessary approvals to proceed with the construction of the Steensby section of the Mary River iron ore mine project on Baffin Island in Nunavut. This initiative aims to enhance the transportation of iron ore from the existing Mary River mine by establishing a railway connection to a planned port at Steensby Inlet.
Despite being located 525 kilometers from the proposed port, the Naujaat-based Arviq HTO is calling for a reassessment of the project. Initially thinking they would not be impacted due to their location in the Kivalliq region, the HTO now believes that developments on Baffin Island, where other communities like Igloolik and Sanirajak have expressed opposition, could affect Naujaat residents.
Concerns have been raised since the project’s approval by the Nunavut Impact Review Board (NIRB) in 2012, citing new research indicating potential impacts on Naujaat. Consequently, on February 6, the HTO requested a review of the project by NIRB and the federal government.
John Ell-Tinashlu, Chairperson of Arviq HTO, expressed worry about potential disruptions to caribou migration routes on Baffin Island due to the proposed railway, which could lead to adverse effects on the caribou population essential to Naujaat residents.
The association is particularly alarmed by the rise in shipping activities through the Foxe Basin, fearing the impact on narwhals passing through their waters. They anticipate a significant increase in ship traffic once the railway is operational, potentially disturbing the marine life in the region.
Arviq HTO’s main contention is the lack of consultation regarding the rail and road project, prompting them to seek assistance from Ecojustice, an environmental law organization in Canada. They argue that their direct involvement in project discussions is crucial and cannot be considered complete without their input.
While Arviq HTO’s concerns are being addressed by regulatory bodies, Baffinland notes the association’s absence from NIRB hearings and emphasizes the transparency of the project’s assessment and monitoring processes.
Despite ongoing reviews by Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Transport Canada for necessary permits, Baffinland asserts having obtained key authorizations to proceed with the construction of the Steensby Component. Arviq HTO intends to continue engaging with authorities until their apprehensions are adequately addressed, hinting at potential legal recourse if their concerns remain unaddressed.