Nunavut Hunters Demand Greater Consultation on Baffinland's Steensby Expansion Project
Nunavut hunters and trappers say they want more consultation on Baffinland's Steensby expansion
Cbc
Image: Cbc
Hunters and trappers associations in Nunavut are urging for increased consultation regarding Baffinland's proposed Steensby Inlet expansion, citing concerns over potential harm to wildlife. They call for a halt on new permits until their voices are heard, emphasizing the project's impact on marine mammals and caribou.
- 01The proposed Steensby expansion would involve year-round shipping through Foxe Basin, increasing ship traffic to over 200 transits annually.
- 02John Ell-Tinashlu, chair of the Arviq Hunters and Trappers Organization, expressed concerns for future generations' hunting grounds.
- 03James Gunvaldsen Klaassen from Ecojustice stated that the project could violate Inuit rights under the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement.
- 04Baffinland claims it will implement measures to protect wildlife, including speed limits and real-time monitoring by trained Inuit marine monitors.
- 05Baffinland is facing financial difficulties, having filed for creditor protection with approximately $800 million in debt.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Three hunters and trappers associations (HTAs) in Nunavut, Canada, are demanding more consultation on Baffinland's proposed Steensby Inlet expansion, which aims to facilitate year-round shipping of iron ore from the Mary River mine. The HTAs from Igloolik, Sanirajak, and Naujaat are concerned that the expansion will threaten local wildlife, particularly marine mammals and caribou. They have called for a pause on new permits until their concerns are adequately addressed. John Ell-Tinashlu, chair of the Arviq Hunters and Trappers Organization, highlighted the potential long-term impacts on future generations' hunting grounds. Legal expert James Gunvaldsen Klaassen from Ecojustice warned that proceeding with the project could infringe upon Inuit rights as outlined in the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement. Baffinland, facing financial challenges with around $800 million in debt, asserts that it will take measures to protect wildlife, including speed limits for ships and real-time monitoring by Inuit marine monitors. However, the HTAs argue that their expertise has been overlooked, stressing the need for more inclusive dialogue regarding the project.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The expansion could significantly affect local wildlife and hunting practices, which are crucial for the livelihoods of the Inuit communities.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you support the Steensby expansion project by Baffinland?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.



