Following “new communication” from a local First Nations community, Cazaly Resources (ASX:CAZ) has halted a drilling program at its Carb Lake Niobium-Rare Earths Project in Ontario, Canada.
Cazaly says the communication — the details of which have not been provided — had only been received after the new geological crew and drill rig had been mobilised to site to begin the planned work.
The Perth-based company says it maintains the necessary approvals for the proposed drilling, and is committed to arrange follow-up meetings with the First Nations community as soon as possible to determine when the program can begin.
Since acquiring Carb Lake, Cazaly says its in-country team has fostered regular and transparent communication with First Nations communities regarding all exploration plans.
Managing Director Tara French says she is disappointed with the development, but is mindful of maintaining respectful, inclusive, and mutually beneficial relationships.
“We deeply value our relationships and would not have made preparations to commence the work if we were aware of any concerns raised by the community,” French says.
“We are working quickly toward securing a follow-up meeting and will continue to work with the indigenous community and its leaders in a respectful manner.”
The company plans to complete 1,200m of drilling to provide better characterisation of the distribution of niobium and rare earths across Carb Lake. The program is expected to inform the next phase of drilling across the intrusive complex.
The Carb Lake Project lies in the Red Lake district in Ontario, Canada, and comprises 93 mineral claims covering a large carbonatite prospective for rare earths.
Cazaly Resources are attending the Diggers & Dealers Mining Forum which is being held in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia from 5-7 August. Mining.com.au is also in attendance.
Write to Aaliyah Rogan at Mining.com.au
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