From: Bob Bromley [Bob_Bromley@gov.nt.ca]
Sent: January 9, 2009 4:34 PM
To: lpayette@nirb.ca
Subject: Uravan Garry Lake Project, NIRB File 08EN037 - Mineral Development on Beverly Calving Ground

Dear Board Members:

 

I understand that you have received an application from Uravan Minerals to expand exploration activities for uranium in the Beverly caribou calving ground northwest of Baker Lake.  Results of recent surveys of Beverly Herd caribou indicate the possibility of a serious decline in numbers.  Recognizing the critical nature of the calving grounds to the health of caribou herds, I am writing to encourage the Nunavut Impact Review Board (NIRB) to disallow mineral exploration and development in this area, at the very least until the health of the herd and the ecological characteristics and role of calving grounds are well understood.  

As stewards of the land and the ecological functions it plays in ensuring our well-being, and that of the ecosystem, we have a poor record of performance.  A number of major stressors like climate change and contaminants now present unprecedented and systemic problems.  Under these conditions, this is not the time to be risking the potentially renewable caribou herds which have served as important sources of food and sustenance for many generations.  At such as sensitive time, when the North needs to be drawing on our traditions and setting an example of self-sufficiency, please give this the utmost consideration in your deliberations, and help set humanity, and the North, back on the path of environmental, economic and social sustainability.

Born in the North almost 60 years ago, with a life time of dedication to responsible resource use, I make this recommendation bases on extensive education and experience, and true concern.  Thanks for your consideration.

 

Robert G. Bromley, PhD

MLA – WELEDEH

Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories

Box 1320

Yellowknife, NT  X1A 2L9