Devco deposits not exactly mines

In your editorial “The Devco Disaster” (T.N.M., Feb. 8-14/99), you fell into the same trap that generations of Cape Bretoners have. I believe that you mistakingly referred to the underground Prince and Phalean coal operations of the Cape Breton Development Corporation as “mines.”

As I am sure you are well aware, all mines have orebodies, which, by definition, are mineral deposits that can be mined at a profit. Based on the track record of Cape Breton Development Corporation since 1967, it is questionable that the coal seams of northern Cape Breton Island can ever be mined at a profit, though that will be determined by the unlucky company that purchases the Prince mine from the federal government in the current privatization exercise. As Nova Scotia moves to natural gas from Sable Island to generate its electricity, it will become increasingly difficult to make coal a viable option in the province. But who knows? Maybe “Capers” will surprise us all and make a go of it. Personally, I think they are capable — and should be encouraged — to do just that.

Patrick Whiteway

Toronto

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