Notices 2023

Suspension of the validity period of certain mining claims affected by forest fires

In the exceptional context of forest fires that have made it impossible to perform certain mineral exploration work this summer, the Ministère des Ressources naturelles et des Forêts announces the suspension, effective August 14, 2023, of the validity period of certain mining claims for one year, particularly in the Chibougamau, Lebel-sur-Quévillon and Eeyou Istchee James Bay sector. Thus, a 12-month extension will be added to the current expiration date of an eligible claim.

The suspension will concern the claims issued before January 1, 2022 on the territories affected by the prolonged forest access and traffic prohibitions (cumulative 28 days or more) due to forest fires. The suspension does not apply to claims already suspended or lapsed, and is not retroactive.

Claim holders whose helicopters have been requisitioned for use by SOPFEU, and have not been able to carry out exploration work for this reason, may also take advantage of the measure, subject to presentation of vouchers, by writing to the Centre de services des mines at services.mines@mrnf.gouv.qc.ca.

Claim holders who do not wish a suspension of the validity period of their claims or part of their claims must apply for lifting of the suspension to the Centre de services des mines at services.mines@mrnf.gouv.qc.ca, within ten (10) business days of receipt of the notice of suspension sent by the MRNF.

However, this decision to suspend the validity period of certain claims does not prevent the performance of work in the field by the holders, when forest access on lands in the domain of the State is possible.

This exceptional support measure applies in accordance with section 63 of the Mining Act and under the powers of the Minister of Natural Resources and Forests.

Consult the map of the sectors affected.