Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think that the application that has been made by BHP is at the DIAND office at the present time. It is still being discussed by DIAND officials as to whether this permanent road, as Mr. Lewis puts it, will be approved or not.

We are, as a department, taking a very close look and talking with BHP as well as to the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs as to what impact these permanent roads will have. The roads that we are talking about are approximately 28 kilometres, and it is only in the area that BHP is exploring at the present time. I believe what is being proposed by BHP are gravel roads which will allow them to be able to transport themselves. It would be a one-lane road that goes from one site to two other sites in their particular area.

Mr. Speaker, we are, as a department, watching very closely to what is happening. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.