Canada-based diversified explorer and developer Foran Mining has selected specialised mining consultancy G Mining Services (GMS) as its partner in the formation of the integrated project management team (IPMT) for construction of Foran’s 100%-owned McIlvenna Bay complex, in the Saskatchewan region of Canada.

GMS’ unique and innovative IPMT model enables a harmoniously aligned construction team to seamlessly transition into an operating team, which is critical to project success. Integrating GMS, within Foran’s ranks, provides the support and accountability needed in delivering safe, on-budget, and on-schedule mine construction.

Foran executive chairperson and CEO Dan Myerson says that GMS is the ideal partner to deliver the McIlvenna Bay complex into production and “unlock this meaningful critical mineral district”.

“[GMS’] expertise, unwavering commitment to safety, and dedication to timely and fiscally prudent project delivery are expected to play an instrumental role into McIlvenna Bay’s development,” he enthuses.

Founded in 2006, GMS is a mining consultancy firm with a notable track record, with Foran stating that it has performed notable work in both underground and openpit mining and processing projects, including for operations in Canada.

“With a comprehensive range of services spanning greenfield projects to mine operation, GMS stands out with its multidisciplinary expertise,” Foran notes in a statement.

GMS’ notable accomplishments include the successful construction of Canadian gold miner Lundin Gold's Fruta del Norte project, in Ecuador, delivering gold/copper/silver miner Newmont Mining's Merian mine in Suriname below budget and ahead of schedule.

More recently, GMS is currently managing project construction of Greenstone Gold Mines’ Greenstone project, in Ontario and G Mining Ventures’ (a subsidiary of GMS) Tocantinzinho project, in Brazil.

With an impressive track record, Foran points out that GMS has achieved a “remarkable” 100% success rate in delivering projects on, or below, budget.

“Having worked over 30-million person hours, they have consistently met or exceeded project schedules with safety and environmental stewardship at the forefront,” Foran notes in a statement.

“We consider ourselves fortunate to partner on projects that align with our expertise and with people who align with our values,” says GMS president Mathieu Gignac.

The opportunity to work with Foran, be an integral part of their team and contribute to the development of McIlvenna Bay, he says, brings GMS “great excitement”, particularly as McIlvenna Bay becomes Saskatchewan's noteworthy base and precious metals project.

“Our involvement not only emphasises our commitment to delivering excellence but also highlights our role in bolstering Canada's critical minerals sector,” adds Gignac.

Strengthening Leadership

In tandem with appointing GMS, Foran has unveiled key management enhancements as it fortifies its team in alignment with the strategic execution of McIlvenna Bay’s development.

As such, the company has promoted former technical services VP Gilbert Lamarche to the role of COO after recognising his invaluable contributions to date.

Foran also notes that David Bernier will continue to play a vital and indispensable role within the company, leveraging his pivotal contributions in de-risking, building and growing the McIlvenna Bay project and advancing key strategic initiatives of the company.

Further, Foran has also promoted former operational readiness manager Sam Renelli to the position of technical services VP and has formally introduced Erin Carswell as exploration VP.

The company has also promoted Jonathan French to the role of capital markets and external affairs VP.

Myerson states that with key roles filled, and the focused special project delivery initiatives to be led by Bernier, Foran is well-equipped for the opportunities that lie ahead.

“[Carswell] will spearhead our exploration programme, as we continue to uncover exciting targets and further define this exceptional critical mineral district located in the one of the world’s best geopolitical jurisdictions,” says Myerson.

Together with this leadership team and their commitment, he says Foran is well on its way to making the McIlvenna Bay complex a “Canadian champion and delivering the urgent critical minerals that are so desperately needed by all”.