Gold Fields Ltd. and its subsidiary, Windfall Mining Group Inc., announced that Canadian authorities issued the certificate of authorization required to begin construction of the Windfall mining project, located in Eeyou Istchee Baie-James. The certificate of authorization confirms that Windfall completed the environmental and social impact assessment and review process applicable to the project under Title II of the Environment Quality Act. It provides the authorization required to begin construction activities, in accordance with the applicable conditions, commitments and regulatory requirements.
This milestone follows the signing of the Uukiimau Agreement, an Impact and Benefit Agreement concluded with the Cree First Nation of Waswanipi, the Cree Nation Government and the Grand Council of the Crees.
“Achieving these two important milestones reflects years of environmental and social studies, technical review, engagement with the Cree First Nation and host communities as well as collaboration with Government authorities. We will now focus on finalizing our execution plan and moving Windfall towards construction safely and responsibly, so that it becomes a long-life, low-cost production center that delivers long-term value for the Eeyou Istchee James Bay, Québec and our shareholders,” said Mike Fraser, CEO of Gold Fields.
Windfall is one of the highest-grade gold projects in Canada and is expected to produce approximately 300,000 ounces of gold per year once ramped up, with considerable growth prospects along strike and down plunge. With the Uukiimau Agreement signed and the certificate of authorization obtained, Gold Fields will progress the Final Investment Decision for the project and expects to publish by February 2027 with its 2026 provisional results.
The company said that remobilization at Windfall will begin shortly, with site activities, including underground activities, expected to resume progressively. With the issuance of the certificate of authorization, the mining lease and secondary permits can now be obtained.
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