01/10/07 WASHINGTON – The following statement regarding the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality’s ruling on the Kennecott Eagle Minerals Company’s proposal for sulfide mining in Marquette County, may be attributed to Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee):

“While I support mining, which has benefited the Upper Peninsula economy, the sulfide mining process raises questions that must be addressed. I remain concerned that the proposed mine could have a negative effect on the Lake Superior watershed, the Yellow Dog River, the local community and the ecology of the area.

“The proposed mine should only be approved if the Kennecott Company can prove that their operations will not degrade the water, resources and public health of northern Marquette County. The Kennecott Company should also be willing to provide financial assurance up front in case future environmental remediation is necessary.”