Letter to Minister Wilkinson

Regarding federal impact assessment for the Montem Resources Tent Mountain Coal Mine project

Dear Minister Wilkinson,

I am writing to request that you designate Montem Resources' Tent Mountain Coal Mine project for a federal impact assessment under section 9(1) of the Impact Assessment Act. I believe there is ample evidence to support a federal assessment gjven the size of the mine, its location, the lack of adequate consultation with Indigenous people, and the adverse effects it will have on species at risk and water quality in the Oldman River Basin.

The Tent Mountain Mine operated from 1948-1983 and thus has an existing mine permit. I don't believe however that this should exempt the Tent Mountain project from a federal impact assessment. Although the stated production capacity of 4925 tonnes per day is slightly under the threshold for federal assessment, it is large enough to raise concerns over its impact on species at risk and water quality. It crosses provincial borders and is located within the traditional territories of the Kainai and Siksika, demanding federal review of Montem's Indigenous consultation process. And the cumulative effects of this project alongside other projects in the Crowsnest Pass region pose a significant environmental threat.

Thank you. I look forward to your prompt action on this matter.

Respectfully,

Heather McPherson
Member of Parliament for Edmonton Strathcona