Statement from Energy, Mines and Resources Minister John Streicker on additional inspector’s directions issued to Victoria Gold Corporation

Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources John Streicker has issued the following statement:

“On Saturday, July 20, the Government of Yukon inspectors issued additional direction to Victoria Gold Corporation in relation to the company’s response to the heap leach failure that occurred on June 24.

“Inspector’s directions are issued to direct the company to undertake actions required to protect the environment and people.

“This series of additional directions is aimed at addressing potential stability risks of the heap leach facility, and enhancing contaminated water storage and treatment, which includes setting up a system to pump and treat groundwater.

“The Government of Yukon is applying a progressive enforcement approach to the Eagle Gold failure response. The inspector’s directions issued on Saturday build on the previous ones and are based on our updated understanding of the site conditions and potential risks. The Government of Yukon will continue to collect information and rely on experienced technical experts to inform subsequent enforcement actions.

“We recognize the seriousness of the heap leach failure that occurred. We are treating this as an emergency response, recognizing the potential impacts to people and the environment.

“Our role as a regulator and enforcement body is to closely monitor the situation, and, when appropriate, direct the company and hold them accountable. Our two key priorities are on-site safety and environmental protection.

“As a regulator, we are also trying to be flexible to adapt to a quickly changing situation.

“We will continue to conduct water quality testing at the site and downstream. This will provide us with the data needed to understand the extent of the impact and to inform next steps.

“We are in daily communication with the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun. Technical experts hired by the Government of Yukon and the First Nation are working together to help guide our response, and we are grateful for the collaboration. The Yukon government and the First Nation are also working together on a joint approach to downstream water quality monitoring.

“The Government of Yukon will continue to provide regular updates to the public.”