Eagle Gold heap leach failure among recent events that ‘highlight the importance and urgency’ of this work
The Government of Yukon has started early work to increase the independence of the territory’s mining regulatory oversight, Premier Mike Pemberton announced.
“The Yukon needs bold ideas to strengthen how we protect our land and waters and how we can support a strong, sustainable mining industry,” said Pemberton. “We know the system has room to be more independent. This early work is about listening and learning – bringing people together to explore new ways to get it right.”
The initiative follows recent incidents, including the failure of the Eagle Gold mine’s heap leach facility and findings from the Independent Review Board, which have underscored the need for more robust oversight of mining operations in the territory, according to the territorial government.
The court-appointed Receiver for Victoria Gold Corp. began discharging water at the Eagle Gold Mine site in February, about seven months after the heap leach failure at the site, according to the Yukon government. The discharge was a proactive measure to manage water levels.
In mid-2024, Yukon engaged contractors to design and build a safety berm at the site of the Eagle Gold mine landslide after a heap leach failure late in June that year.
According to the government, the current system is responsible for inspecting mining activities, enforcing environmental laws, and monitoring the impacts of resource development on Yukon’s land and waters. The new effort aims to make the system more independent, transparent, and better equipped to address the changing needs of the territory.
Senior government officials have been tasked with enhancing both the independence and capacity of Yukon’s inspection, enforcement, and monitoring system. The process will involve engagement with frontline workers, Yukon First Nations, industry representatives, and technical experts.
Key principles guiding this initiative include:
- ensuring meaningful involvement of Yukon First Nations;
- enhancing the independence and transparency of regulatory oversight; and
- increasing the capacity of the system to fulfil its mandate effectively.
The government is also considering whether the Yukon Water Board could serve as an independent home for the oversight function.
“Our priority is making sure Yukoners have confidence that our environment is protected now and for generations to come,” said Pemberton.
The government stated that the exploration will not negatively impact current employees, and that frontline workers will be consulted and play a leading role in the process. This initiative builds on the progress made through Yukon’s new minerals legislation process, which has involved collaboration with multiple partners.
