Prince George, B.C. – An application filed by Imperial Metals for a restricted re-start of its Mount Polley operation in Likely has been accepted for formal review.

As a result, Ministry of Energy and Mines spokesperson David Haslam says it has been referred to the Mine Development Review Committee, which will have its first meeting today in Likely.

He says the first community meeting will be in Likely tomorrow at the Likely Community Hall from 7-9 pm.

This meeting will be hosted by Imperial Metals and ministry officials will be present.

Haslam says the schedule for future community meetings is being worked out and details will be shared when available.

The 30 day public consultation period will occur through the month of April.

Imperials Metals filed the application for a restricted re-start March 20 and has the support of the United Steelworkers union.

“The process has to happen, the consultation has to happen, the do’s and dont’s have to happen,” says Local 1-425 president Paul French.

(Dozens of workers have been laid off since the tailings pond breach last summer).

The proposal will require permits under the Mines Act and the Environmental Management Act.

A decision on whether or not to issue the permits will be made in early June.