A proposed open-pit gold mine could mean the relocation of an entire northern Ontario community, something that has many residents on edge. Cadillac Mines says it’s still in the early planning stages, but for people who call Virginiatown home, the possibility of losing their homes is already taking a toll. For generations, families have built their lives in the community, but a proposed open-pit gold mine could mean residents will eventually have to move. Cadillac Mines has said that the footprint of its proposed Kerr-Addison project could overlap the existing township, making relocation necessary if the project moves forward. “Part of what we’ve done in the last 10 years is to properly understand the value that’s in the ground and the geology and the deposit itself,” said Cadillac spokesperson Leon Leblanc. “We believe that we have something that is worthy of being advanced from a design perspective.” But for residents, this is about much more than losing their homes. “I lived here all my life and to (some) people, V-town looks like it’s just a hole,” said resident Sylvain Plante. “But to me, that’s where I lived all my life. That’s where my kids decided to stay. I got all my family around me and I walk my grandchildren every day. And I wonder what kind of price tag they’re going to put on that.” Leblanc said the company is looking at such considerations. “One of the examples that we’re investigating, that we’ll be building upon and leveraging feedback to refine, would be potentially adding neighbourhoods to existing communities to resettle people,” he said. But for residents, the uncertainty is personal and some have a direct message for the company. “Forget that project -- go home,” said resident Marcel Paquet. “Let us live our lives. That’s it … I understand their point of view, but to me, my point of view is more important than theirs.” Others are worried about losing the future they had planned. “This was my long-term plan,” said resident Steve Barrette. “I’m not making any (other) plans.” Cadillac Mines said this week that it is nowhere near a construction decision. A preliminary economic assessment is expected in 2027, followed by further studies and permitting. Municipal officials either declined or did not respond to our requests for interviews. But in a statement, officials said that since no project applications have been submitted, and none are expected in the near future, it would be premature for council to make any decisions about the future of the township at this time. “We recognize that our community is where residents have built their homes, raised their families and established their lives,” the statement said. “We remain committed to ensuring that residents’ interests and concerns are heard and considered throughout this process.” Cadillac Mines said a company representative will be at the McGarry Public Library every Tuesday until Dec. 15 to answer questions from residents.
