Timmins, ON – The Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) welcomes the federal government’s decision to formally refer Canada Nickel’s Crawford Project to the Major Projects Office, recognizing its national significance and its potential to drive economic growth and clean-energy development in Northern Ontario.
Located approximately 42 kilometres north of Timmins in the Abitibi Greenstone Belt, the Crawford Nickel Project is one of the world’s largest known nickel sulphide deposits. The project is also advancing significant carbon-capture innovation and strong partnerships with First Nations in the region.
FONOM President Dave Plourde said the federal announcement—made by the Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources—marks an important milestone for the North.
“FONOM applauds the Government of Canada for identifying Crawford as a project of national importance,” said Dave Plourde, President of FONOM. “Northern Ontario has a central role to play in supplying the critical minerals needed for electric vehicles, clean technology, and national security. This referral gives the project the coordination and certainty required to move forward responsibly and competitively.”
Plourde emphasized that the project aligns with the region’s long-term economic interests and the federal government’s clean-energy ambitions.
“This is the kind of nation-building investment our region has been calling for,” added Plourde. “The Crawford Project brings together economic development, environmental innovation, and meaningful partnerships with First Nations. It represents thousands of potential jobs for Northern families and will help strengthen Canada’s position as a global leader in the low-carbon economy.”
Canada Nickel’s Crawford Project is expected to generate significant regional benefits, including:
- One of the world’s largest nickel reserves, supporting the growing EV battery supply chain.
- Innovative IPT Carbonation technology that could lead to one of Canada’s largest carbon-storage facilities.
- Strong, ongoing collaboration with First Nations, including recent partnership and investment agreements.
- An economic impact estimated at $70 billion in GDP over the mine’s life and approximately 1,000 full-time jobs.
FONOM looks forward to continued collaboration with all levels of government, Indigenous partners, and industry as Northern Ontario helps drive Canada’s clean-energy transition.
Media Contact:
Dave Plourde, President
Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM)
705-335-1615 | [email protected]