Federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has expressed skepticism regarding the progress of the long-stalled Sisson Mine project in New Brunswick. Poilievre criticized the Carney government’s handling of the proposed tungsten and molybdenum mine, which has been in limbo for over a decade. During an interview with CBC News following a visit to a Fredericton homebuilder, Poilievre cautioned against high expectations for the project, stating that the government’s current actions amount to bureaucratic delays rather than concrete progress.
While Poilievre refrained from outright dismissing the possibility of the mine’s development, he highlighted past promises made by federal cabinet minister Dominic LeBlanc regarding the project’s timeline. LeBlanc had previously anticipated construction to commence in 2018 after receiving federal environmental approval in 2017. However, Poilievre criticized the repeated delays and unfulfilled commitments surrounding the Sisson Mine, emphasizing the need for tangible actions to move the project forward.
In response to the establishment of the Major Projects Office by the Carney government, a spokesperson for LeBlanc defended the initiative, stating that it aims to expedite projects like the Sisson Mine. The statement underscored the transformative potential of the office, noting its support from various sectors, including unions and private-sector leaders. However, Poilievre’s focus remained on advocating for streamlined processes and reduced government intervention to create a conducive environment for investment and business growth.
Despite the ongoing uncertainties surrounding the Sisson Mine, Premier Susan Holt outlined potential measures to attract investment, such as offtake agreements and price floors to ensure the project’s viability. Poilievre refrained from endorsing specific strategies like price floors, emphasizing the need for a business-friendly environment through tax reductions and efficient permitting procedures. The Conservative leader argued that such measures would enhance Canada’s competitiveness without relying on government subsidies or imposing additional burdens on taxpayers.
CBC News reached out to Northcliff Resources’ CEO for insights on the Sisson project’s timeline but has yet to receive a response. The fate of the Sisson Mine remains uncertain, with the project facing challenges amid fluctuating mineral prices and regulatory hurdles. Despite government efforts to facilitate its progress, the future development of the mine hinges on various factors, including market conditions and investor confidence.