The government of Quebec is allowing mines to reopen from Wednesday, but only if they can comply with strict measures to limit the spread of Covid-19.
Mining companies, including Yamana Gold, Agnico Eagle and Eldorado Gold, have confirmed that they would resume operations this week. The Quebec government’s decision to allow for resumption of mining operations was based on the industry’s implementation of best practices in public health, including strict social distancing protocols that comply with the Quebec Department of Public Health and the province’s Committee on Standards, Equity, and Occupational Safety.
The government’s decision also recognised the importance of mining in the supply of metals contained in many products essential to daily life, including medical devices used in the fight against Covid-19.