A grassroots campaign opposing the La Loutre graphite mine project near Duhamel, Quebec, is gaining traction in the Gatineau Valley ahead of a referendum. The opposition is linked to concerns raised by residents about mining activity in their communities. The project is associated with Lomiko Metals, the company behind La Loutre.
Lomiko Metals also holds mining claims in Low, Quebec, and in Kitigan Zibi Anishinābeg, north of Ottawa, within the MRC Vallée-de-la-Gatineau. In September, Quebec announced it would not fund the La Loutre mine, but Lomiko continues exploration in other regions. Lomiko maintains that its operations are legal.
Community group and local opposition measures
Carolyn Raab, a member of ActionLow, said a community group has been formed against all mining activity in the municipality of Low. Raab said part of the initiative includes placing signs to inform residents that they oppose mining. She described the effort as focused on municipal-level opposition.
Signs opposing mining activity were distributed to all 17 municipalities in the MRC Vallée-de-la-Gatineau. The distribution was described as solidarity with other regions in Quebec facing similar concerns. Lomiko Metals did not respond to interview requests from Radio-Canada.
Regulatory push and provincial “social acceptability” timeline
ActionLow is advocating for expanded authority for regional municipalities to regulate mining activities. Raab said legal changes are needed to prevent further mining development. She referenced Quebec’s decision not to invest in the La Loutre mine while calling for changes to prevent additional projects.
Quebec Premier François Legault previously indicated that no mining projects would proceed without what the province calls “social acceptability.” The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests said this requirement is set to take effect in May 2024. The stated aim is to ensure concerns from local municipalities and Indigenous communities are taken into account.
Concerns over impacts and neighbouring territory claims
Claude Bouffard, co-ordinator of the Citizens’ Committee Opposing the La Loutre Mining Project, said upcoming legislative modifications could reduce prolonged disputes over proposals. Bouffard said new laws would help protect communities from extended battles against mining initiatives. He also described Quebec’s decision not to fund La Loutre as significant.
Bouffard raised concerns about potential environmental contamination and risks to public health. He said the committee wants to prevent the project from moving forward. He also emphasized that nearby communities affected by Lomiko’s claims have faced challenges after being alerted about them.
In Low, ActionLow’s website says Lomiko has claimed over 5,000 hectares of land. In Gracefield, Mayor Mathieu Caron said mining concerns are currently less prominent than elsewhere. Caron added that residents are expected to oppose a concrete mining proposal if one is put forward.