VICTORIA – The B.C. government has granted conditional environmental approval for a billion-dollar mine in the province’s northwest over the objections of the Nisga’a Nation.

Provincial environment and mines ministers issued the Environmental Assessment Certificate to Avanti Mining Inc. (TSXV:AVT) to revive a mothballed molybdenum mine about 140 kilometres north of Prince Rupert.

Government officials agreed the mine could proceed after a review concluded the project isn’t expected to result in any significant adverse affects, based on the company following 34 conditions.

The Nisga’a Nation, however, has been concerned the decision is being rushed because of the upcoming May election and have filed a notice of disagreement under their historic treaty.

The government news release says the province believes it can engage in dispute resolution with the First Nation in order to address any outstanding issues.

The open-pit mine is planned to produce upwards of 50,000 tonnes of ore per day and is expected to create as many as 300 local jobs.