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Globe and Mail
21-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Q2 Metals Defines Initial Exploration Target of 215 to 329 Million Tonnes at the Cisco Lithium Project in James Bay, Quebec, Canada
Highlights The initial Exploration Target estimates a range of lithium mineralization at the Cisco Project from 215 to 329 Mt at a grade ranging from 1.0 to 1.38 % Li 2 O. Based only on the first 40 holes drilled to date. Drill testing continues with mineralization open at depth and along strike with potential for significant expansion at the Cisco Mineralized Zone. The 2025 Summer Program is ongoing, with rolling assay results anticipated into Q3 2025 as the Company works towards a maiden resource estimate. The Exploration Target was completed by BBA Inc., an independent geological and engineering consulting firm, and is based on exploration and drilling to date. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Q2 Metals Corp. (TSX.V: QTWO | OTCQB: QUEXF | FSE: 458) (' Q2 ' or the ' Company ') is pleased to announce an inaugural Exploration Target on the Cisco Lithium Project (the ' Project ' or the ' Cisco Project '), located within the greater Nemaska traditional territory of the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Quebec, Canada. The estimated range of potential mineralization and grade is from 215 to 329 million tonnes ('Mt') at a grade ranging from 1.0 to 1.38 % Li 2 O: Tonnes Range (Mt) Li 2 Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum Exploration Target 215 329 1.00 1.38 Table 1: Exploration Target for Cisco Mineralized Zone The potential quantity and grade of the Exploration Target are conceptual in nature. There has been insufficient exploration to estimate and define a Mineral Resource, as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Project (' NI 43-101 '), and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the target being delineated as a Mineral Resource. An Exploration Target is used to provide a conceptual estimate of the potential quantity and grade of a mineral deposit, based on known and additional limited geological evidence. It is an early-stage assessment that will help to guide further exploration, but it is not a mineral resource or mineral reserve and should not be treated as such. The Exploration Target for the Cisco Project encompasses the main mineralized zone (the ' Mineralized Zone ') (see Figure 1), which includes a total of 40 holes drilled for 16,167.8 metres ('m') 1. Figure 1. Cisco Project showing pegmatite outcrop zones in the Exploration Target area The Exploration Target is constrained to the Mineralized Zone and does not include prospective geology and targets that the Company has identified outside of the Mineralized Zone. As such, there is the potential to further increase the overall lithium endowment of the Cisco Project. The large and well-mineralized CO2 outcrop which measures approximately 30 m wide by 80 m long has not yet been confirmed with drilling, and other areas to the east and south of the Mineralized Zone, such as CO6 or CO18 are also not included. Figure 2. Cross section through the Mineralized Zone at Cisco Project ' This Exploration Target represents a major milestone for Q2 and cements Cisco as a globally significant hard rock lithium discovery, ' said Alicia Milne, Q2 Metals President and CEO. 'Cisco's location within the James Bay Lithium District, including proximity to the all-season Billy Diamond Highway and, most notably, rail at the nearby town of Matagami, make it an ideal candidate for a development scenario. We are excited to continue to grow and advance the Cisco Project, executing on our strategy to create value for our shareholders.' 'This Exploration Target, particularly its being limited to just the currently defined Mineralized Zone, highlights both the scale potential of the Cisco Project as well as its grade,' said Q2 VP of Exploration, Neil McCallum. 'The Mineralized Zone remains open at depth and along strike and with only 40 holes drilled so far, there is potential for significant expansion at the Cisco Project. We are continuing the 2025 summer drill program with infill drilling of the Mineralized Zone in order to update the current Exploration Target to a NI 43-101 compliant inferred Mineral Resource Estimate.' Figure 3. Cisco Project location Exploration Target Live Webinar Q2 Metals will be hosting a live webinar, with Q&A, on Wednesday July 23 at 9:00 am PT | 12:00 pm ET. To register, click here. The Company engaged BBA Inc. ('BBA') as an independent consultant to review all exploration and drilling conducted to date at the Cisco Project and to complete an Exploration Target, in accordance with NI 43-101. The Exploration Target is based on BBA's interpretation of the following geology and mineralization data that has been compiled to date: 40 diamond core drill holes completed for 16,167.8 m; 7,358 drill hole assay results; 156 surface rock chip samples; Surface geological mapping and diamond core geological logging; Detailed LiDAR surface topography; and The estimate includes geological information for the lower half of drill hole 36, and all of drill holes 38 and 39 (does not include pending assays). BBA methodology included a complete review of the data and 3D modelling to create a conceptual volume of the pegmatite domains within the Mineralized Zone. The pegmatite domains were interpreted where geological information was available with sufficient quantity and quality. To estimate a tonnage, pegmatite specific gravity ('SG') was used for the pegmatite domains and based on 407 measurements. The average SG of each domain was then applied individually. An associated grade was then applied based on the assay results for each individual domain. The implied tonnage and grade of each volume was then reduced by a factor (confidence factor) to account for the likelihood of each domain being mineralized at a reasonable grade. The grade and tonnage were then further adjusted by an additional factor to be reported as ranges. The estimated tonnages are rounded to the nearest million tonnes and the grade rounded to the nearest 0.01% Li 2 O. The 3D modelling of the pegmatite domains was restricted to the Mineralized Zone. The extent of the interpreted pegmatite domains was limited up to 250 m around the relevant geological information (drill hole, channel). The thickness of the interpreted pegmatite domains is representative of the pegmatite intercepts. The Exploration Target does not include prospective geology and targets that the Company has identified outside of the Mineralized Zone. As such, there is the potential to further increase the overall lithium endowment of the Cisco Project. Qualified Person Mr. Todd McCracken, is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, and member in good standing with the Ordre des Géologues du Québec and with the Professional Geoscientists of Ontario. Mr. McCracken has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release. Mr. McCracken is Director – Mining & Geology – Central Canada, of BBA Inc. and is independent of the Company. Mr. McCracken does not hold any securities in the Company. Neil McCallum, a registered permit holder with the Ordre des Géologues du Québec and Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 ('QP') has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release. Mr. McCallum is a director and the Vice President Exploration for Q2. ABOUT Q2 METALS CORP. Q2 Metals is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the Cisco Lithium Project located within the greater Nemaska traditional territory of the Eeyou Istchee, James Bay, Quebec, Canada. The Cisco Project is comprised of 801 claims, totaling 41,253 hectares, with the main mineralized zone just 6.5 km from the Billy Diamond Highway, which transects the Project. The Town of Matagami, rail head of the Canadian National Railway, is approximately 150 km to the south. The Cisco Project has district-scale potential with an already identified mineralized zone and drill results that include: 120.3 metres at 1.72% Li 2 O (hole CS-24-010); 215.6 metres at 1.69% Li 2 O (hole CS-24-018); 347.1 metres at 1.35% Li 2 O (hole CS-24-021); 188.6 metres at 1.56% Li 2 O (hole CS-24-023); and 179.6 metres at 1.66% Li 2 0 (hole CS-25-027) with an additional 58.0 m at 1.75% Li 2 O; and 91.8 m at 1.81% Li 2 O. The 2025 Summer Program is ongoing, with rolling assay results anticipated into Q3 2025. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Follow the Company: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram Sampling, Analytical Methods and QA/QC Protocols All drilling is conducted using a diamond drill rig with NQ sized core and all drill core samples are shipped to SGS Canada's preparation facility in Val D'Or, Quebec, for standard sample preparation (code PRP92) which includes drying at 105°C, crushing to 90% passing 2 mm, riffle split 500 g, and pulverize 85% passing 75 microns. The pulps are then shipped by air to SGS Canada's laboratory in Burnaby, BC, where the samples are homogenized and subsequently analyzed for multi-element (including Li and Ta) using sodium peroxide fusion with ICP-AES/MS finish (code GE_ICM91A50). The reported Li grade will be multiplied by the standard conversion factor of 2.153 which results in an equivalent Li 2 O grade. Drill core was saw-cut with half-core sent for geochemical analysis and half-core remaining in the box for reference. The same side of the core was sampled to maintain representativeness. A Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QA/QC) protocol following industry best practices has been incorporated into the sampling program. Measures include the systematic insertion of quartz blanks and certified reference materials (CRMs) into sample batches at a rate of approximately 5% each. Additionally, analysis of pulp-split and reject-split duplicates was completed to assess analytical precision. The QP has verified the QA/QC results of the analytical work. Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, 'forward-looking statements') within the meaning of applicable Canadian legislation. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: 'believes', 'expects', 'anticipates', 'intends', 'estimates', 'plans', 'may', 'should', 'would', 'will', 'potential', 'scheduled' or variations of such words and phrases and similar expressions, which, by their nature, refer to future events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Accordingly, all statements in this news release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations and orientations regarding the future including, without limitation, any statements or plans regard the geological prospects of the Company's properties and the future exploration endeavors of the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release speak only as of the date of this news release or as of the date specified in such statement. Forward looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the definition of an Exploration Target at the Company's Cisco Project, drilling results on the Cisco Project and inferences made therefrom, the preparation of an exploration target on the Cisco Project, the potential scale of the Cisco Project, the focus of the Company's current and future exploration and drill programs, the scale, scope and location of future exploration and drilling activities, the Company's expectations in connection with the projects and exploration programs being met, the Company's objectives, goals or future plans, statements, exploration results, potential mineralization, the estimation of mineral resources, exploration and mine development plans, timing of the commencement of operations and estimates of market conditions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include failure to obtain necessary approvals, variations in ore grade or recovery rates, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, unsuccessful exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, reallocation of proposed use of funds, general economic, market or business conditions, risks associated with regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, uninsured risks, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same. Readers are cautioned that mineral exploration and development of mines is an inherently risky business and accordingly, the actual events may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Additional risk factors are discussed in the section entitled 'Risk Factors' in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis for its recently completed fiscal period, which is available under Company's SEDAR profile at Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information except as otherwise required by applicable law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. ___________________ 1 Summary of Drill and Assay data.
Yahoo
21-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Q2 Metals Defines Initial Exploration Target of 215 to 329 Million Tonnes at the Cisco Lithium Project in James Bay, Quebec, Canada
Highlights The initial Exploration Target estimates a range of lithium mineralization at the Cisco Project from 215 to 329 Mt at a grade ranging from 1.0 to 1.38 % Li2O. Based only on the first 40 holes drilled to date. Drill testing continues with mineralization open at depth and along strike with potential for significant expansion at the Cisco Mineralized Zone. The 2025 Summer Program is ongoing, with rolling assay results anticipated into Q3 2025 as the Company works towards a maiden resource estimate. The Exploration Target was completed by BBA Inc., an independent geological and engineering consulting firm, and is based on exploration and drilling to date. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Q2 Metals Corp. (TSX.V: QTWO | OTCQB: QUEXF | FSE: 458) ('Q2' or the 'Company') is pleased to announce an inaugural Exploration Target on the Cisco Lithium Project (the 'Project' or the 'Cisco Project'), located within the greater Nemaska traditional territory of the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Quebec, Canada. The estimated range of potential mineralization and grade is from 215 to 329 million tonnes ('Mt') at a grade ranging from 1.0 to 1.38 % Li2O:Tonnes Range (Mt) Li2O Range (%) Minimum Maximum Minimum Maximum Exploration Target 215 329 1.00 1.38 Table 1: Exploration Target for Cisco Mineralized Zone The potential quantity and grade of the Exploration Target are conceptual in nature. There has been insufficient exploration to estimate and define a Mineral Resource, as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Project ('NI 43-101'), and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the target being delineated as a Mineral Resource. An Exploration Target is used to provide a conceptual estimate of the potential quantity and grade of a mineral deposit, based on known and additional limited geological evidence. It is an early-stage assessment that will help to guide further exploration, but it is not a mineral resource or mineral reserve and should not be treated as such. The Exploration Target for the Cisco Project encompasses the main mineralized zone (the 'Mineralized Zone') (see Figure 1), which includes a total of 40 holes drilled for 16,167.8 metres ('m')1. Figure 1. Cisco Project showing pegmatite outcrop zones in the Exploration Target area The Exploration Target is constrained to the Mineralized Zone and does not include prospective geology and targets that the Company has identified outside of the Mineralized Zone. As such, there is the potential to further increase the overall lithium endowment of the Cisco Project. The large and well-mineralized CO2 outcrop which measures approximately 30 m wide by 80 m long has not yet been confirmed with drilling, and other areas to the east and south of the Mineralized Zone, such as CO6 or CO18 are also not included. Figure 2. Cross section through the Mineralized Zone at Cisco Project 'This Exploration Target represents a major milestone for Q2 and cements Cisco as a globally significant hard rock lithium discovery,' said Alicia Milne, Q2 Metals President and CEO. 'Cisco's location within the James Bay Lithium District, including proximity to the all-season Billy Diamond Highway and, most notably, rail at the nearby town of Matagami, make it an ideal candidate for a development scenario. We are excited to continue to grow and advance the Cisco Project, executing on our strategy to create value for our shareholders.' 'This Exploration Target, particularly its being limited to just the currently defined Mineralized Zone, highlights both the scale potential of the Cisco Project as well as its grade,' said Q2 VP of Exploration, Neil McCallum. 'The Mineralized Zone remains open at depth and along strike and with only 40 holes drilled so far, there is potential for significant expansion at the Cisco Project. We are continuing the 2025 summer drill program with infill drilling of the Mineralized Zone in order to update the current Exploration Target to a NI 43-101 compliant inferred Mineral Resource Estimate.' Figure 3. Cisco Project location Exploration Target Live Webinar Q2 Metals will be hosting a live webinar, with Q&A, on Wednesday July 23 at 9:00 am PT | 12:00 pm ET. To register, click here. Methodology and Determination for the Exploration Target The Company engaged BBA Inc. ('BBA') as an independent consultant to review all exploration and drilling conducted to date at the Cisco Project and to complete an Exploration Target, in accordance with NI 43-101. The Exploration Target is based on BBA's interpretation of the following geology and mineralization data that has been compiled to date: 40 diamond core drill holes completed for 16,167.8 m; 7,358 drill hole assay results; 156 surface rock chip samples; Surface geological mapping and diamond core geological logging; Detailed LiDAR surface topography; and The estimate includes geological information for the lower half of drill hole 36, and all of drill holes 38 and 39 (does not include pending assays). BBA methodology included a complete review of the data and 3D modelling to create a conceptual volume of the pegmatite domains within the Mineralized Zone. The pegmatite domains were interpreted where geological information was available with sufficient quantity and quality. To estimate a tonnage, pegmatite specific gravity ('SG') was used for the pegmatite domains and based on 407 measurements. The average SG of each domain was then applied individually. An associated grade was then applied based on the assay results for each individual domain. The implied tonnage and grade of each volume was then reduced by a factor (confidence factor) to account for the likelihood of each domain being mineralized at a reasonable grade. The grade and tonnage were then further adjusted by an additional factor to be reported as ranges. The estimated tonnages are rounded to the nearest million tonnes and the grade rounded to the nearest 0.01% Li2O. The 3D modelling of the pegmatite domains was restricted to the Mineralized Zone. The extent of the interpreted pegmatite domains was limited up to 250 m around the relevant geological information (drill hole, channel). The thickness of the interpreted pegmatite domains is representative of the pegmatite intercepts. The Exploration Target does not include prospective geology and targets that the Company has identified outside of the Mineralized Zone. As such, there is the potential to further increase the overall lithium endowment of the Cisco Project. Qualified Person Mr. Todd McCracken, is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, and member in good standing with the Ordre des Géologues du Québec and with the Professional Geoscientists of Ontario. Mr. McCracken has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release. Mr. McCracken is Director – Mining & Geology – Central Canada, of BBA Inc. and is independent of the Company. Mr. McCracken does not hold any securities in the Company. Neil McCallum, a registered permit holder with the Ordre des Géologues du Québec and Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 ('QP') has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release. Mr. McCallum is a director and the Vice President Exploration for Q2. ABOUT Q2 METALS CORP. Q2 Metals is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the Cisco Lithium Project located within the greater Nemaska traditional territory of the Eeyou Istchee, James Bay, Quebec, Canada. The Cisco Project is comprised of 801 claims, totaling 41,253 hectares, with the main mineralized zone just 6.5 km from the Billy Diamond Highway, which transects the Project. The Town of Matagami, rail head of the Canadian National Railway, is approximately 150 km to the south. The Cisco Project has district-scale potential with an already identified mineralized zone and drill results that include: 120.3 metres at 1.72% Li2O (hole CS-24-010); 215.6 metres at 1.69% Li2O (hole CS-24-018); 347.1 metres at 1.35% Li2O (hole CS-24-021); 188.6 metres at 1.56% Li2O (hole CS-24-023); and 179.6 metres at 1.66% Li20 (hole CS-25-027) with an additional 58.0 m at 1.75% Li2O; and 91.8 m at 1.81% Li2O. The 2025 Summer Program is ongoing, with rolling assay results anticipated into Q3 2025. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Alicia MilnePresident & CEOAlicia@ Jason McBrideInvestor Relations ManagerJason@ Chris AckermanCorporate DevelopmentChris@ Telephone: 1 (800) 482-7560E-mail: info@ Follow the Company: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram Sampling, Analytical Methods and QA/QC Protocols All drilling is conducted using a diamond drill rig with NQ sized core and all drill core samples are shipped to SGS Canada's preparation facility in Val D'Or, Quebec, for standard sample preparation (code PRP92) which includes drying at 105°C, crushing to 90% passing 2 mm, riffle split 500 g, and pulverize 85% passing 75 microns. The pulps are then shipped by air to SGS Canada's laboratory in Burnaby, BC, where the samples are homogenized and subsequently analyzed for multi-element (including Li and Ta) using sodium peroxide fusion with ICP-AES/MS finish (code GE_ICM91A50). The reported Li grade will be multiplied by the standard conversion factor of 2.153 which results in an equivalent Li2O grade. Drill core was saw-cut with half-core sent for geochemical analysis and half-core remaining in the box for reference. The same side of the core was sampled to maintain representativeness. A Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QA/QC) protocol following industry best practices has been incorporated into the sampling program. Measures include the systematic insertion of quartz blanks and certified reference materials (CRMs) into sample batches at a rate of approximately 5% each. Additionally, analysis of pulp-split and reject-split duplicates was completed to assess analytical precision. The QP has verified the QA/QC results of the analytical work. Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, 'forward-looking statements') within the meaning of applicable Canadian legislation. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: 'believes', 'expects', 'anticipates', 'intends', 'estimates', 'plans', 'may', 'should', 'would', 'will', 'potential', 'scheduled' or variations of such words and phrases and similar expressions, which, by their nature, refer to future events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Accordingly, all statements in this news release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations and orientations regarding the future including, without limitation, any statements or plans regard the geological prospects of the Company's properties and the future exploration endeavors of the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release speak only as of the date of this news release or as of the date specified in such statement. Forward looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the definition of an Exploration Target at the Company's Cisco Project, drilling results on the Cisco Project and inferences made therefrom, the preparation of an exploration target on the Cisco Project, the potential scale of the Cisco Project, the focus of the Company's current and future exploration and drill programs, the scale, scope and location of future exploration and drilling activities, the Company's expectations in connection with the projects and exploration programs being met, the Company's objectives, goals or future plans, statements, exploration results, potential mineralization, the estimation of mineral resources, exploration and mine development plans, timing of the commencement of operations and estimates of market conditions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include failure to obtain necessary approvals, variations in ore grade or recovery rates, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, unsuccessful exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, reallocation of proposed use of funds, general economic, market or business conditions, risks associated with regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, uninsured risks, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same. Readers are cautioned that mineral exploration and development of mines is an inherently risky business and accordingly, the actual events may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Additional risk factors are discussed in the section entitled 'Risk Factors' in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis for its recently completed fiscal period, which is available under Company's SEDAR profile at Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information except as otherwise required by applicable law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. ___________________ 1 Summary of Drill and Assay data. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
18-07-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Paul John Murdoch elected new grand chief of Eeyou Istchee
Paul John Murdoch has been elected grand chief of Eeyou Istchee, securing more than half the vote in a decisive win over two other candidates on Thursday. A Cree lawyer from Wemindji and Waskaganish, Que., Murdoch is stepping away from private practice to take on the Grand Council's top leadership role. Official results from the election show Murdoch with 2,291 votes (52 per cent), defeating Norman A. Wapachee, the interim grand chief who earned 1,746 votes (39 per cent), and John Kitchen who received 410 votes (9 per cent). Central to Murdoch's platform are housing reform, investments in justice and prevention programs, and a commitment to uniting the Cree Nation's leadership. He replaces Mandy Gull-Masty, who resigned in May to become Canada's minister of Indigenous Services. "My priority from day one is going to be empowering the council, making sure everybody feels a part of leadership, and unite with all of the chiefs of the communities," said Murdoch. Murdoch says regular in-person meetings have already been set up with the grand council of the Crees. "Anything great the Cree Nation has ever achieved, it was always during the state of unity," said Murdoch. Murdoch called it a "friendly" election campaign and said he has a lot of respect for fellow candidates Wapachee and Kitchen. Housing has been a major issue discussed at general assemblies, according to Murdoch, and it has been a persistent struggle in every community for years. He says it will be another major priority for him, and that they have the tools to address the issue. "The Cree Nation government can do more to support a private housing sector which would take pressure off of social housing," said Murdoch, adding that they can also develop more social housing. Another priority for Murdoch is to better support the justice system, policing, and prevention programs. "We gave the bands the power to adopt laws, to ensure peace and order in their communities, but we didn't give them the ability to enforce those laws," said Murdoch Murdoch refers to the federal Cree-Naskapi (of Quebec) Act, passed in 1984, which establishes local self-government for the Cree and Naskapi First Nations in northern Quebec. "There are relatively simple things that we can do to empower communities so that they can adopt laws and policies to implement them, make sure that it is a reflection of what they want," said Murdoch. Murdoch hopes to build relationships with fellow members of the Cree Nation Government before tackling important files with the federal government, like Bill C-5. For Murdoch, this election is only the beginning. he says that he's not afraid to have hard conversations in the sprit of connecting and understanding one another. "I find it rare these days that people are encouraged to get a little uncomfortable having a conversation you might not normally have with somebody else," he said. As a former lawyer, Murdoch traveled over 100,000 kilometres to visit Cree communities. Although he struggled to find time for discussions during his trips, he found it especially meaningful to engage with people during the election campaign. "That's the only way we're going to build bridges between communities or people who are so different from one another," said Murdoch. The race for deputy grand chief is still ongoing, featuring Linden Spencer from Eastmain and John Henry Wapachee from Waswanipi. In the first round, Spencer received 2,126 votes, accounting for 47 per cent of the total, while Wapachee followed with 1,432 votes, representing 32 per cent. Voting for the run-off will begin on July 26, with the election scheduled for Aug. 1.
Hamilton Spectator
26-06-2025
- Politics
- Hamilton Spectator
Minister Mandy Gull-Masty has made a career out of beating the odds
At just 14 years old, an age when most are worried about high school, Minister Mandy Gull-Masty was facing the challenges that come with being a mother. 'I was like every regular teenager, I had my own issues,' Gull-Masty said. 'I didn't always make the best decisions, mine turned into being a teen mom.' But the resourceful and determined teenager from Waswanipi, Quebec, would quickly learn that life is all about making the most out of her circumstances. As the first Indigenous Minister of Indigenous Services Canada, and the first woman to be elected to the office of Grand Chief of Eeyou Istchee before that, Gull-Masty has made a career out of beating the odds. Now she hopes her journey can inspire other Indigenous women to pursue a career in politics. But all of this was all still a lifetime away for the young Gull-Masty. Following high school, Gull-Masty aspired to follow in her mother's footsteps, who was a secretary for the local band council in Waswanipi. 'Seeing my mother in that role, where community members were coming to her, other employees were coming to her. … 'was like, wow, she is really in a role where she's able to help everybody,'' Gull-Masty said. 'So, I want to be like my mom.' As the mother of two young children, Gull-Masty was determined to set a positive example for them by attending university. 'Something about having them in my life made me hyper aware of the responsibility of caring for somebody,' Gull-Masty said. 'And I think that transferred into my career path as well.' It was her mother who first encouraged her to enter Cree politics, remembering how deeply invested she was in the affairs of the band council politics as a child. 'I remember talking to her on the phone and saying, 'Mom, no way,'' Gull-Masty said. 'There's no way that would ever happen. People would never vote for me.' Gull-Masty admits she was hesitant to run at first, worried about her past and that her limited Cree language skills, stemming from a childhood spent in the south, would automatically discredit her in the eyes of many voters. But her mother reminded her that, at least the latter, could be fixed with a little bit of effort. 'The Cree foundation is in your mind,' Gull-Masty recalled her mother telling her. 'You just have to exercise your language ability and it will come back. It will strengthen.' Then word got around in the tight knit community of Waswanipi, and soon after, others in the community began to approach her saying the same thing. 'It snowballed when somebody heard that and came to see me and said, 'you know, Mandy, we think that you could do this and we want to support you,'' Gull Masty said. When Gull-Masty became the first woman to be elected the Grand Chief of Eeyou Istchee, 20 years after the last woman held the position by appointment, she saw it as an opportunity to open political spaces for Indigenous women. Terrellyn Fearn, Project Director at the Turtle Island Institute for Indigenous Science, said that systemic reform and cultural shifts are needed to make room for Indigenous women in leadership. 'Reconciliation in politics is more than just land acknowledgements' Fearn said. 'It means creating space for Indigenous women to lead, to be grounded in feminine thought and contribution.' Three years into her term, Gull-Masty organized a Women's Leadership Conference aimed at helping Indigenous women enter politics. Gull-Masty recalls they had initially hoped for 40 attendees at most, only for more than 300 to show up, from every Indigenous nation in Quebec, including the Inuit. 'We even had to turn people away at the door because the hotel was upset that we were reaching the maximum capacity for the fire codes,' Gull-Masty said. Irene Neeposh, chief of the Cree First Nation of Waswanipi, was part of a wave of female chiefs across Eeyou Istchee who were inspired to enter politics by Gull-Masty example. 'I think the inspiration that I hope that Indigenous people can find from this, I think I hope it'll be a positive one and one to encourage our I would say duty to spread out,' Neeposh said. 'If we want change, we can't sit on the sidelines.' Before Gull-Masty's election, only two of the 22 council representatives in the Cree nation were women. By the end of her term, over half of the council was made up of women. Now, as the Member of Parliament for Abitibi–Baie-James–Nunavik–Eeyou, she hopes to expand that example onto a national scale. For Joshua Loon, a Cree father of two young girls, Gull-Masty's leadership brings a sense of pride. 'I want my children to recognize who they are as Cree women,' Loon said. Gull-Masty hopes her appointment sends a message, not just to Cree, but to Indigenous women across the country, that change is possible. 'Statistically I was a teen mom, I should not be where I am,' Gull-Masty said. 'Statistically, as an Indigenous woman in Canada, the level of harm that could happen to me, is pretty high. So, I don't think there are any barriers in life that are too high if you want to achieve something. The strength in you and resilience you have as a woman can take you into any spaces you want to be in it.' Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Associated Press
23-06-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Critical Elements Confirms Electromagnetic Conductors on The Nemaska Belt Properties
MONTRÉAL, QC / ACCESS Newswire / June 23, 2025 / Critical Elements Lithium Corporation (TSX-V:CRE)(OTCQX:CRECF)(FSE:F12) ('Critical Elements' or the 'Corporation') is pleased to announce that the VTEM survey completed during spring 2025confirmed the presence of multiples electromagnetic conductors on its 100%-owned Nemaska Belt properties (Figures 1). An important helicopter-borne electromagnetic VTEM plus time-domain system ('VTEM') survey covering the Nemaska Belt group of properties in the Eeyou Istchee region of Québec has been completed. The 2,701-line kilometre VTEM survey executed by Geotech Airborne Geophysical Survey covers the entirety of Critical Elements' 100%-owned Nemaska Belt properties with flight lines at a 200-metre spacing. The objective of the survey was to identify conductors that could correlate with Nickel-Copper-PGE mineralization and define high-priority drill targets. Figure 1: Nemaska Belt projects - VTEM B-field Z component survey location Additionally, the Corporation began a surface exploration program on the Nemaska Belt portion of the portfolio and the Rose blocks at the end of May 2025 and intends to pursue a prospecting, mapping, and sampling program until late August 2025. Dahrouge Geological Consulting Ltd. has been mandated to perform the summer exploration program targeting potentially economic mineralization including high-grade Nickel-Copper-PGE as well as lithium-bearing spodumene. Qualified Person François Gagnon, P. Geo, Operations Director - Québec for Dahrouge Geological Consulting Ltd., is the Qualified Person who has reviewed and approved the technical content of this press release on behalf of the Corporation. About Critical Elements Lithium Corporation Critical Elements aspires to become a large, responsible supplier of lithium to the flourishing electric vehicle and energy storage system industries. To this end, Critical Elements is advancing the wholly-owned, high-purity Rose Lithium-Tantalum project in Québec, the Corporation's first lithium project to be advanced within a land portfolio of over 1,050 km2. On August 29, 2023, the Corporation announced results of a new Feasibility Study on Rose for the production of spodumene concentrate. The after-tax internal rate of return for the Project is estimated at 65.7%, with an estimated after-tax net present value of US$2.2B at an 8% discount rate. In the Corporation's view, Québec is strategically well-positioned for US and EU markets and boasts good infrastructure including a low-cost, low-carbon power grid featuring 94% hydroelectricity. The project has received approval from the Federal Minister of Environment and Climate Change on the recommendation of the Joint Assessment Committee, comprised of representatives from the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada and the Cree Nation Government, received the Certificate of Authorization under the Environment Quality Act from the Québec Minister of the Environment, the Fight against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks, and the project mining lease from the Québec Minister of Natural Resources and Forests under the Québec Mining Act. For further information, please contact: Jean-Sébastien Lavallée, P. Géo. Chief Executive Officer 819-354-5146 [email protected] Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is described in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary statement concerning forward-looking statements This news release contains 'forward-looking information' within the meaning of Canadian Securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as 'scheduled', 'anticipates', 'expects' or 'does not expect', 'is expected', 'scheduled', 'targeted', or 'believes', or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results 'may', 'could', 'would', 'might' or 'will be taken', 'occur' or 'be achieved'. Forward-looking information contained herein include, without limitation, statements relating to the results and completion of the 2025 exploration program on the Corporation's Nemaska Belt properties and its related objectives. Forward-looking information is based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable at the time such statements are made. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Although Critical Elements has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from expected results described in forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: final and complete results of the Corporation's 2025 exploration program on the Corporation's Nemaska Belt properties and effects on the Corporation's stated objectives, as well as those risk factors set out in the Corporation's Management Discussion and Analysis for its most recent quarter ended February 28, 2025 and other disclosure documents available under the Corporation's SEDAR+ profile. Forward-looking information contained herein is made as of the date of this news release and Critical Elements disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information contained herein is made as of the date of this news release. Although the Corporation has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information or implied by forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or reissue forward-looking information as a result of new information or events except as required by applicable securities laws. SOURCE: Critical Elements Lithium Corp. press release
