Mr. Speaker, it is my understanding that the arrangement between Miramar Giant Mine Limited and the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs expires at the end of December this year. At that time, Miramar Giant Mine Limited has the option of either negotiating an extension -- and determining what the terms of that extension might be is something between them and DIAND -- or simply saying no, we do not intend to continue mining from that site anymore.

I have spoken to the manager and he has told me that they have not yet firmly made up their mind exactly what they will do. Until we know that, it is very difficult for us to do more than simply continue to monitor what they and DIAND are doing. Thank you.