Gladiator Metals resumes drilling near Whitehorse despite violations

A mining company called Gladiator Metals is back drilling near Whitehorse, despite having been fined for violations in the same area two years ago. The company recently received a permit to drill up to 50,000 meters over the next year in the Whitehorse copper belt, including Cowley Park. The mining company was fined $43,700 in 2023 for exceeding its previous exploration permit. It had pleaded guilty to six charges under the Yukon’s Quartz Mining Act and was ordered to fix the damage caused. Gladiator has also applied for a longer-term Class 3 exploration permit, which would let it work in the area for the next five years. This application is still being reviewed by the Yukon assessment board. Local residents, particularly those living near Cowley Creek, are upset about the company's activities. Glenys Baltimore, president of the Cowley Creek Community Association, expressed concern about the potential risks of having industrial operations so close to residential areas. Residents have previously complained about noise and the destruction of recreational spaces due to the company's work. Baltimore argues that the laws governing mining permits are outdated and do not adequately protect residential communities. She believes the fine given to Gladiator was too low and is calling for a pause on mining activities until these regulations are updated. Paul Inglis, from the Yukon government's mining department, acknowledged that the current regulations are difficult to navigate and do not adequately address modern concerns. He noted the lack of a process to prevent companies with violations from receiving new permits, although he stated that Gladiator has complied with the requirements following its earlier infractions. Gladiator Metals plans to hold an open house on March 26 to discuss its application for the Class 3 permit and provide updates on its exploration plans in the McIntyre Creek area. The company has directed inquiries to its news release.