Creating mining jobs on Newfoundland and Labrador’s west coast

Federal investment supports sustainable mining practices

Wednesday, February 5, 2025 · St. George’s, Newfoundland and Labrador · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

The Government of Canada is supporting Newfoundland and Labrador’s mining industry, investing in a salt company on the province’s west coast.

Today, the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic

Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), announced a repayable contribution of $1 million for Atlas Salt Inc. to support the company’s Mine Design & Optimization Initiative, a key component of the Great Atlantic Salt Project. This initiative will explore the use of low-emission battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), optimize mine design for efficiency, and conduct geotechnical and hydrological studies to support future construction and help create new economic opportunities for the region.

The project, located within the Town of St. George’s, is scheduled to begin construction this year, with production expected to start in 2029. The project includes the adoption of advanced automation and digitalization technologies, advanced electrical mining solutions, and establishing sustainable salt production for domestic and export markets.

The project is expected to create up to 300 full-time construction jobs and 170 permanent positions during operations.

Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to creating new opportunities for sustainable economic growth and job creation in rural Newfoundland and Labrador. 

Quotes

“This investment from your federal government is about helping Atlas Salt find new ways to boost our economy here in Newfoundland and Labrador. Mining has been part of our history for generations; embracing new technologies, we are setting the stage for an even brighter future right here at home.”
— The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“This initiative is not just about innovation, it’s about building a stronger, more sustainable future for Newfoundland and Labrador. By integrating advanced automation and low-emission mining technologies, we are creating new economic opportunities while minimizing environmental impact. Thanks to ACOA’s support, the Great Atlantic Salt Project is moving one step closer to becoming a world-class operation that will benefit our province for generations.”
— Richard LaBelle, CEO, Atlas Salt Inc.

Quick facts

• Atlas Salt’s Great Atlantic Salt Project construction is set to begin this year, with production expected to start in 2029.

• This project is the only salt resource project in the region, and, once operational, will be the first major salt producer to start up in eastern North America in decades.

• The project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Altas Salt will explore the feasibility of integrating battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and electrified systems into mining operations.

• This initiative will strengthen the domestic supply chain, reducing the need for imported salt and lowering transportation emissions.

• The funding announced today is provided through ACOA’s Rural Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program.