Sept-Îles, November 12, 2026 – Torngat Metals is releasing the first results from Local Voices, an initiative conducted independently by Voconiq among Sept-Îles residents from May 27 to June 23, 2026. This baseline survey was designed to better understand community perceptions, concerns and expectations regarding the proposed rare earth separation plant in Sept-Îles. The findings will serve as a baseline to track changes in perceptions and help guide Torngat Metals’ information and engagement efforts.
An initial snapshot of community perceptions
A total of 336 people participated in the survey. The results show a range of perspectives. Respondents see potential positive benefits for the region, particularly in terms of economic prosperity, job creation, and business opportunities for local companies. They also expressed concerns about a range of potential environmental impacts associated with the project, including those related to dust, biodiversity, water and radioactivity.
The results also indicate that many respondents have not yet formed a firm opinion about the project. Levels of trust in Torngat Metals and acceptance of its presence in the community are close to the midpoint of the scale used. In this context, continued dialogue with the community, attention to the concerns expressed, and access to clear information remain essential as the process moves forward.
In light of these results, Torngat Metals intends to continue its efforts to raise awareness and understanding of the project, clearly explain the regulatory processes that govern it, and provide greater clarity on the proposed monitoring measures and its approach to community engagement.
These initial results provide a baseline for Torngat Metals. They will help track changes in perceptions over time and better focus the company’s information and community engagement efforts.
An ongoing initiative
Additional surveys will be conducted following this first survey to track how concerns evolve over time. This initiative reflects Torngat Metals’ commitment to continuously improving its communication and engagement practices with affected communities. Survey highlights and detailed results are available here: Local Voices Results – Torngat Metals
About Torngat Metals
Torngat Metals is a privately held Canadian company working to develop the Strange Lake project and supply responsibly produced rare earth elements used in high-technology and low-carbon-emission solutions. With operations in Québec, as well as in Newfoundland and Labrador, the company aims to become a leading supplier of strategic rare earth elements. Seeking to build solid partnerships with Inuit, First Nations and local communities, complemented by state-of-the-art engineering and new approaches to minimizing environmental impacts, Torngat Metals aims to play a key role in the global transition to clean energy.
Media Contact
Aline Vandermeer
Director of communications
aline.vandermeer@torngatmetals.com
514-605-3416