TSX: KGI
ANNUAL INFORMATION FORM
For the year ended April 30, 2015
July 9, 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GLOSSARY OF TERMS ........................................................................................................................................ 1
GENERAL ............................................................................................................................................................. 7
NAME ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
REPORTING CURRENCY ........................................................................................................................................................................ 7
REPORTING PERIOD AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ........................................................................................................................... 7
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS ................................................................................................................ 7
CORPORATE STRUCTURE .................................................................................................................................. 8
NAME, ADDRESS AND INCORPORATION ..................................................................................................................................... 8
COMPANY OFFICES ............................................................................................................................................................................... 8
GENERAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY’S BUSINESS ......................................................................... 9
NATURE OF THE COMPANY’S BUSINESS ............................................................................................................................................. 9
MAP OF KIRKLAND LAKE LAND POSITION .................................................................................................................................... 9
KIRKLAND LAKE COMPLEX AND PROPERTY WIDE TARGETS ........................................................................................................... 10
THREE YEAR HISTORY ........................................................................................................................................................................ 10
DESCRIPTION OF THE COMPANY’S BUSINESS ............................................................................................13
PRINCIPAL MARKETS ................................................................................................................................................................... 13
DISTRIBUTION METHODS .................................................................................................................................................................. 13
PURCHASERS ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
PRODUCTION AND SERVICES ............................................................................................................................................................ 13
SPECIALIZED SKILL AND KNOWLEDGE ............................................................................................................................................. 13
COMPETITIVE CONDITIONS ............................................................................................................................................................... 13
RAW MATERIALS (COMPONENTS) ................................................................................................................................................... 14
BUSINESS CYCLE & SEASONALITY ................................................................................................................................................... 14
ECONOMIC DEPENDENCE.................................................................................................................................................................. 14
RENEGOTIATION OR TERMINATION OF CONTRACTS ...................................................................................................................... 14
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ....................................................................................................................................................... 14
EMPLOYEES ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES ......................................................................................................................................... 15
RISK FACTORS .................................................................................................................................................................................... 15
MINERAL PROJECTS.........................................................................................................................................22
FIXED ASSETS – PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT .................................................................................................................... 22
MINING PROPERTIES – DESCRIPTION AND LOCATION .................................................................................................................. 23
RECLAMATION BONDS AND PERMITS .............................................................................................................................................. 24
ACCESSIBILITY, CLIMATE, LOCAL RESOURCES AND PHYSIOGRAPHY ............................................................................................. 25
HISTORY .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 26
GEOLOGICAL SETTING ....................................................................................................................................................................... 31
MINERALIZATION ............................................................................................................................................................................... 32
MINERAL RESERVES AND RESOURCES ESTIMATES .......................................................................................................................... 33
CURRENT AND PROPOSED EXPLORATION AND DEVELOPMENT ................................................................................................... 34
MINING OPERATIONS ........................................................................................................................................................................ 36
DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STRUCTURE .......................................................................................................37
GENERAL ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 37
CONSTRAINTS .................................................................................................................................................................................... 37
RATINGS .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 38
MARKET FOR SECURITIES ...............................................................................................................................38
TRADING PRICE AND VOLUME.......................................................................................................................................................... 38
PRIOR SALES ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 39
ESCROWED SECURITIES & SECURITIES SUBJECT TO CONTRACTUAL RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER
............................................................................................................................................................................39
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS ............................................................................................................................40
NAME, OCCUPATION AND SECURITY HOLDING ............................................................................................................................. 40
CEASE TRADE ORDERS ...................................................................................................................................................................... 41
BANKRUPTCIES ................................................................................................................................................................................... 41
PENALTIES AND SANCTIONS ............................................................................................................................................................. 41
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST ................................................................................................................................................................... 42
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS ......................................................................................................................................42
REGULATORY ACTIONS ..................................................................................................................................42
INTEREST OF MANAGEMENT AND OTHERS IN MATERIAL TRANSACTIONS .........................................42
TRANSFER AGENTS AND REGISTRAR ...........................................................................................................43
MATERIAL CONTRACTS ..................................................................................................................................43
INTERESTS OF EXPERTS ..................................................................................................................................43
NAMES OF EXPERTS ........................................................................................................................................................................... 43
INTERESTS OF EXPERTS ...................................................................................................................................................................... 44
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION .........................................................................................................................44
SCHEDULE ‘A’ ...................................................................................................................................................45
AUDIT COMMITTEE INFORMATION ..............................................................................................................45
COMPOSITION OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE ...................................................................................................................................... 45
RELEVANT EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE ....................................................................................................................................... 45
RELIANCE ON CERTAIN EXEMPTIONS ............................................................................................................................................... 46
AUDIT COMMITTEE OVERSIGHT ........................................................................................................................................................ 46
PRE-APPROVAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ................................................................................................................................. 46
EXTERNAL AUDITOR SERVICE FEES (BY CATEGORY) ...................................................................................................................... 47
SCHEDULE ‘B’ ....................................................................................................................................................47
CONSTITUTION & AUTHORITY ......................................................................................................................................................... 47
MANDATE ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 47
RESPONSIBILITIES ............................................................................................................................................................................... 48
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Certain terms used in this Annual Information Form are defined as follows:
Term
Definition
advance royalty
A form of royalty where the payment is made before the commencement of
commercial production and which forms a credit against future royalty payments
once commercial production begins.
alkalic
Containing one of sodium or potassium.
alkali-feldspar
Potassic or sodium feldspar.
alluvial
Archaean
augite
batholith
break
breccia
bullion
Relatively recent deposits of sedimentary material laid down in river beds, flood
plains, lakes, or at the base of mountain slopes.
An era in geologic time about 3.8 billion to 2.5 billion years ago during which the
Earth’s crust solidified.
A mineral consisting of calcium magnesium iron aluminium silicate.
A large mass of igneous rock extending to great depth with its upper portion dome-
like in shape. It has crystallized below surface, but may be exposed as a result of
erosion of the overlying rock. Smaller masses of igneous rocks are known as bosses
or plugs.
A mineralized fault.
Rock consisting of angular fragments in a matrix of finer-grained cementing material.
A refined metal, such as gold or silver.
Canadian Shield
A region of Precambrian (greater than 600 million years old) rock covering central,
eastern and northern Canada and extending south into Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Large areas of the Canadian Shield have been exposed by the erosion of younger
rocks overlaying the Precambrian rock.
cataclasis
Crushing of rocks.
collar
1)
2)
The timbering or concrete around the mouth of a shaft.
The top of a drill hole.
Common Share
A common share of the Company, as presently constituted.
conglomerate
A sedimentary rock consisting of rounded, water-worn pebbles or boulders
cemented into a solid mass.
crosscut
A horizontal opening driven from a shaft and at right angles to the strike of a vein or
rock formation.
cut (and uncut)
Assays are ‘cut’ or reduced to a lower, more consistent value to avoid such higher
grade assays skewing the average and producing inconsistent results. Assays that
are ‘uncut’ include such higher grade assays.
cyanidation
diabase
diamond drill(ing)
A milling process, using hydrogen cyanide, to extract gold from the host rock.
A common basic igneous rock usually occurring in dykes or sills.
A rotary type of rock drill in which the cutting is done by abrasion rather than
percussion. The cutting bit is set with diamonds and is attached to the end of long
hollow rods through which water or other fluid is pumped to the cutting face as a
lubricant. The drill cuts a core of rock that is recovered in long cylindrical sections,
two centimetres or more in diameter.
1
Term
doré
drift
dyke
fault
feldspar
felsic
fluvial
footwall
fracture
Definition
The final saleable product of a gold mine, usually a bar consisting of gold and silver,
prior to refining into bullion.
A horizontal underground opening that follows along the length of a vein or rock
formation as opposed to a crosscut which crosses the rock formation.
A long and relatively thin body of igneous rock that, while in the molten state,
intruded a fissure in older rocks.
A break in the Earth’s crust caused by tectonic forces which have moved the rock on
one side with respect to the other. Faults may extend many kilometres, or be only a
few centimetres in length. Similarly, the movement or displacement along the fault
may vary widely.
A group of rock-forming minerals.
The term used to describe light-coloured rocks containing feldspar, feldpathoid and
silica.
Sedimentary material found in river beds.
The wall or rock on the underside of a vein or ore structure.
A break in the rock, the opening of which affords the opportunity for entry of mineral-
bearing solutions. A ‘cross fracture’ is a minor break extending at more-or-less right
angles to the direction of the principal fractures.
free-milling [gold]
Gold is ‘free-milling’ if it can be extracted from ore such that cyanidation can extract
approximately 95% of the gold when the ore is ground to size 80% passing 45
microns, without prohibitively high reagent consumption. The highest level of free-
milling ore is that from which the gold can be separated by a gravity process.
fuchsite
Mica with a characteristic (emerald) green colour arising from the presence of
chrome or vanadium.
gangue
Worthless minerals in an ore deposit.
geotechnical
Using geology and geological engineering.
gneiss
granite
granitoid
g/t
A coarsely crystalline metamorphic rock that looks like granite except that the light
and dark minerals are segregated into thin layers or lenses.
A course-grained (intrusive) igneous rock consisting of quartz, feldspar and mica.
Rocks which are in the family of granites.
Gold gram per tonne of rock
greenstone
Volcanic rocks forming ‘belts’ within intrusive or sedimentary rocks and which are the
source of most metal deposits.
hangingwall
The wall or rock on the upper side of a vein or ore deposit.
hectare
igneous
intrusive
komatiitic
A square of 100 metres on each side.
A type of rock which has been formed from magna, a molten substance from the
earth’s core.
A body of igneous rock formed by the consolidation of magma intruded into other
rocks, in contrast to lavas, which are extruded upon the surface.
A volcanic rock containing a high concentration of magnesium and generally a low
concentration of silica.
2
Term
lithofacies
Definition
An association of several sedimentary rocks laid down during a common geologic
time period.
lithological
The nature and composition of rocks.
mafic
massive
metamorphic
Igneous rocks composed mostly of dark iron and magnesium rich minerals.
Solid (without fractures) wide (thick) rock unit.
A type of rock which, through heat and pressure, has been changed from igneous or
sedimentary rock.
meta-sedimentary Metamorphosed sedimentary rocks.
meta-volcanic
Metamorphosed volcanic rocks.
mill
1)
A plant in which ore is treated for the recovery of valuable metals, or the
concentration of valuable minerals into a smaller volume for shipment to a
smelter or refinery.
2) A piece of milling equipment consisting of a revolving drum, for the
fine-grinding of ores as a preparation for treatment.
Mine Complex
The Macassa, Lake Shore, Wright-Hargreaves, Teck-Hughes and Kirkland Minerals
Properties and their respective, formerly producing, underground gold mines.
mineralization
The concentration of metals and their chemical compounds within a body of rock.
molybdenite
Molybdenum sulphide (MoS2); which is the main ore in which molybdenum is found;
often found in granitic rocks
MNDM
modal
muck
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines of the government of the province of
Ontario.
The most frequent value of a set of data.
Ore or rock that has been broken by blasting.
net smelter royalty
or NSR
A type of royalty based on a percentage of the proceeds, net of smelting, refining
and transportation costs and penalties, from the sale of metals extracted from
concentrate and doré by the smelter or refinery.
NI 43-101
National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects of the
Canadian Securities Administrators.
non-refractory
Ore that has high melting point and is resistant to milling treatment. Such ore is
commonly associated with sulphides.
opt
ore
Gold ounce per ton of rock
A mixture of minerals and gangue from which at least one metal can be extracted at
a profit.
ortho-gneisses
Gneisses (rocks) which have metamorphosed from granites.
orthoclase
Feldspar-potassic.
para-gneisses
Schists (rocks) which have metamorphosed from sedimentary rocks.
paste
pillowed
Tailings used for back-filling the underground voids in a mine to provide stable
support of the mine and overburden (during mining and after closure of the mine)
and eliminate or reduce above-ground tailings storage.
Volcanic rocks that have formed from the bulbous cooling of magma when cooled
quickly in water.
3
Term
placer
Definition
An alluvial deposit of sand and gravel containing valuable metals such as gold, tin,
etc.
plagioclase
Feldspar which has had calcium and aluminium substituted for sodium and silica.
plugs
plunge
pluton
polyphase
porphyry
A common name for a small offshoot from a larger batholith.
The vertical angle an ore body makes between the horizontal plane and the direction
along which it extends, longitudinally to depth.
Body of rock exposed after solidification at great depth.
Having multiple phases.
Any igneous rock in which relatively large, conspicuous crystals (called phenocrysts)
are set in a fine-grained groundmass.
proto-continent
The earliest crust forming event in the Earth’s geological history and which is a
predecessor to the current continent.
quartz
raise
reserve
resource
A mineral whose composition is silicon dioxide. A crystalline form of silica.
A vertical or inclined underground working that has been excavated from the bottom
upward.
NI 43-101 defines a ‘mineral reserve’ as the economically mineable part of a
Measured or Indicated Mineral Resource demonstrated by at least a comprehensive
study of the viability of a mineral project that has advanced to a stage where the
mining method, in the case of underground mining, or the pit configuration, in the
case of an open pit, has been established, and where an effective method of mineral
processing has been determined. This study must include a financial analysis based
on reasonable assumptions of technical, engineering, operating, and economic
factors and evaluation of other relevant factors which are sufficient for a person
qualified under such instrument, acting reasonably, to determine if all or part of the
Mineral Resource may be classified as a Mineral Reserve. This study must include
adequate information on mining, processing, metallurgical, economic and other
relevant factors that demonstrate, at the time of reporting, that economic extraction
can be justified. A Mineral Reserve includes diluting materials and allowances for
losses that may occur when the material is mined.
Mineral Reserves are sub-divided in order of increasing confidence into Probable
Mineral Reserves and Proven Mineral Reserves. A Probable Mineral Reserve has a
lower level of confidence than a Proven Mineral Reserve.
(1) Probable Mineral Reserve. A ‘Probable Mineral Reserve’ is the economically
mineable part of an Indicated, and in some circumstances a Measured Mineral
Resource demonstrated by at least a Preliminary Feasibility Study. This Study must
include adequate information on mining, processing, metallurgical, economic, and
other relevant factors that demonstrate, at the time of reporting, that economic
extraction can be justified.
(2) Proven Mineral Reserve. A ‘Proven Mineral Reserve’ is the economically
mineable part of a Measured Mineral Resource demonstrated by at least a
Preliminary Feasibility Study. This Study must include adequate information on
mining, processing, metallurgical, economic, and other relevant factors that
demonstrate, at the time of reporting, that economic extraction is justified.
NI 43-101 defines a ‘Mineral Resource’ as a concentration or occurrence of natural,
solid, inorganic or fossilized organic material in or on the Earth’s crust in such form
and quantity and of such a grade or quality that it has reasonable prospects for
economic extraction. The location, quantity, grade, geological characteristics and
continuity of a mineral resource are known, estimated or interpreted from specific
4
Term
Definition
geological evidence and knowledge.
Mineral Resources are sub-divided, in order of increasing geological confidence, into
Inferred, Indicated and Measured categories. An Inferred Mineral Resource has a
lower level of confidence than that applied to an Indicated Mineral Resource. An
Indicated Mineral Resource has a higher level of confidence than an Inferred Mineral
Resource but has a lower level of confidence than a Measured Mineral Resource.
(1) Inferred Mineral Resource. An ‘Inferred Mineral Resource’ is that part of a
Mineral Resource for which quantity and grade or quality can be estimated on the
basis of geological evidence and limited sampling and reasonably assumed, but not
verified, geological and grade continuity. The estimate is based on limited
information and sampling gathered through appropriate techniques from locations
such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes.
(2) Indicated Mineral Resource. An ‘Indicated Mineral Resource’ is that part of a
Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical
characteristics can be estimated with a level of confidence sufficient to allow the
appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support mine
planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is
based on detailed and reliable exploration and testing information gathered through
appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and
drill holes that are spaced closely enough for geological and grade continuity to be
reasonably assumed.
(3) Measured Mineral Resource. A ‘Measured Mineral Resource’ is that part of a
Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape, physical
characteristics are so well established that they can be estimated with confidence
sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters,
to support production planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the
deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and
testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as
outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough to
confirm both geological and grade continuity.
As used herein, “resources” do not include reserves.
royalty
An amount of money paid at regular intervals, or based on production, by the lessee
or operator of an exploration or mining property to the current or former owner of the
mineral interests. Generally based on a certain amount per ton or a percentage of
the total production or profits.
SEDAR
The System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval of the Canadian
Securities Administrators.
sedimentary
A type of rock which has been created by the deposition of solids from a liquid.
shaft
shear
shoot
sill
A vertical or inclined excavation in rock for the purpose of providing access to an ore
body. Usually equipped with a hoist at the top, which lowers and raises a
conveyance for handling workers and materials.
The deformation of rocks by lateral movement along innumerable parallel planes,
generally resulting from pressure and producing such metamorphic structures as
cleavage and schistosity.
A concentration of mineral values. That part of a vein or zone carrying values of ore
grade.
An intrusive sheet of igneous rock of roughly uniform thickness, generally extending
over considerable lateral extent, that has been forced between the bedding planes of
existing rock.
5
Term
SMC
splay
stope
strike
structural
subprovince
Stub Year
syenite
Definition
The South Mine Complex, a mineralized zone located south of the historically mined
area of the Macassa Mine.
An offshoot of a fault. A split from a major fault.
An excavation in a mine from which ore is being or has been extracted.
The direction, or bearing, from true north of a vein or rock formation measured on a
horizontal surface.
Pertaining to geologic structure.
A part of a shield (such as the Canadian Shield) subdivided by common geologic
time and rock types. In the Canadian Shield some of the major subprovinces are:
Abitibi, Opatica and Pontiac.
An intrusive igneous rock composed chiefly of orthoclase.
synclinorium
A syncline (rocks folded in a ‘U’ shape) related area.
tailings
telluride
tholeiitic
tonalitic
Material rejected from a mill after most of the recoverable valuable minerals have
been extracted.
A mineral associated with gold that contains tellurium.
Volcanic rock with higher silica and lower sodium, potassium and magnesium
content relative to alkaline magma types of volcanic rocks and considered to be
related to each other by crystal fractionation processes (such as basalt or andesite
containing augites or pigeonite).
Intrusive igneous rock with plagioclase feldspar, hornblende (an amphibole mineral),
biotite (a platy magnesium-iron mica common in igneous rock) and greater than 10%
quartz.
tpd
Production rate measured in tons per day
trondjhemite
A sodic, siliceous rock containing feldspar and quartz.
TSX
TSX-V
tuff
turbidite
ultramafic
Toronto Stock Exchange
TSX Venture Exchange
A rock formed of compacted volcanic fragments.
Submarine landslides along a continental slope containing large masses of
sediment.
Igneous rock which are very high in mafic minerals, that is, containing virtually no
quartz or feldspar and composed essentially of iron-magnesium silicates and
metallic oxides.
uncomformably
Not having the same direction of stratification due to the erosion or folding over of
younger rocks.
unconformity
A surface of erosion that separates younger rocks from older rocks.
uncut (and cut)
See ‘cut (and uncut)’.
unknown ore
Ore encountered during mining that has not been defined through drilling and which
is mined before being included in reserves and resources. Due to the erratic nature
of the mineralization at most narrow vein gold mines, and the difficulties of defining
ore zones in this environment, a significant fraction of ore mined in any period can
6
Term
Definition
be unknown ore. Unknown ore often must be mined when encountered to maintain
the most efficient and stable mining sequence, and is normally, but not necessarily,
lower grade than ore that which has been included in the reserves and resources.
An occurrence of ore with an irregular development in length, width and depth
usually from an intrusion of igneous rock.
Volcanically formed rocks.
An internal shaft.
vein
volcanics
winze
GENERAL
NAME
All references in this Annual Information Form (“AIF”) to the “Company” mean Kirkland Lake
Gold Inc.
REPORTING CURRENCY
All dollar amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated.
REPORTING PERIOD AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company’s fiscal year end is April 30, 2015. All information referenced in this AIF is as of
that date unless otherwise stated.
This AIF should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited financial statements and
management’s discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) for the year ended April 30, 2015. The
financial statements and MD&A are available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR
(www.sedar.com) and on the Company’s website (www.klgold.com).
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
the plans,
including statements regarding
Information Form contains statements which constitute
”forward-looking
This Annual
intentions, beliefs and current
statements”,
expectations of the Company with respect to the future business activities and operating
performance of the Company. The words “may”, “would”, “could”, “should”, “will”, “intend”,
“plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to the
Company, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements
used in this AIF include, but may not be limited to, statements regarding the Company’s
development and production estimates; and the commencement of a regional exploration
program and the results and timing thereof. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking
statements are based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered
reasonable at the date the statements are made such as, without limitation, opinion,
assumptions and estimates of management regarding the Company’s business, its ability to
decrease its production costs by focussing on quality tons and grade and other operational
improvement initiatives to further reduce costs and generate positive cash flow. Such opinions,
7
assumptions and estimates, are inherently subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and
other known and unknown factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially
from those projected in the forward-looking statements. These factors include the Company's
expectations in connection with the projects and exploration programs being met, the impact of
general business and economic conditions, global liquidity and credit availability on the timing of
cash flows and the values of assets and liabilities based on projected future conditions,
fluctuating gold prices, currency exchange rates (in particular the Canadian dollar versus the
United States Dollar), possible variations in ore grade or recovery rates, changes in accounting
policies, changes in the Company's corporate mineral resources, changes in project parameters
as plans continue to be refined, changes in project development, construction, production and
commissioning time frames, the possibility of project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and
expenses, higher prices for fuel, power, labour and other consumables contributing to higher
costs and general risks of the mining industry, failure of plant, equipment or processes to
operate as anticipated, unexpected changes in mine life, seasonality and unanticipated weather
changes, costs and timing of the development of new deposits, success of exploration activities,
permitting time lines, government regulation of mining operations, environmental risks,
unanticipated reclamation expenses, title disputes or claims, and limitations on insurance, as
well as those risk factors discussed or referred to in the Company's annual MD&A as filed with
the securities regulatory authorities in certain provinces of Canada and available at
www.sedar.com. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should
assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary
materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or
expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and
factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause
results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does
not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements except as otherwise
required by applicable law.
CORPORATE STRUCTURE
NAME, ADDRESS AND INCORPORATION
The Company was originally incorporated under the Company Act (British Columbia) (now
called the Business Corporations Act) on June 29, 1983 and continued under the Canada
Business Corporations Act on July 27, 1988, changing from a provincially to a Canadian
federally incorporated company, at which time the authorized capital was changed to an
unlimited number of Common Shares.
The Company changed its name from ‘Foxpoint Resources Ltd.’ to ‘Kirkland Lake Gold Inc.’ on
October 25, 2002 to reflect the nature and location of the Company’s business.
COMPANY OFFICES
As of the date of this AIF, the Company’s head and registered office is located at 95 Wellington
Street W., Suite 1430, Toronto, Ontario, M5J 2N7.
8
GENERAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY’S BUSINESS
NATURE OF THE COMPANY’S BUSINESS
The Company is a gold producer; which currently operates mining operations (mining and
milling) from its Mine Complex (which includes the Macassa property and the South Mine
Complex). The Company also conducts exploration on its contiguous land package.
The Company’s mining business is located near the town of Kirkland Lake, Ontario and consists
of five contiguous gold properties known as the Macassa, Lake Shore, Wright-Hargreaves,
Teck-Hughes and Kirkland Minerals properties and their respective, formerly producing,
underground gold mines (such five properties, and mines collectively the ”Kirkland Lake
Complex”).
MAP OF KIRKLAND LAKE LAND POSITION
9
KIRKLAND LAKE COMPLEX AND PROPERTY WIDE TARGETS
Prior to acquisition by the Company, the five gold properties had been developed and operated
independently. All five mining properties were closed or were inactive at the time they were
acquired by the Company. All of the underground mines were abandoned and flooded.
Following rehabilitation of the No. 3 shaft on the former Macassa property, mine dewatering and
extensive refurbishment, a very successful exploration program was carried out over a multi-
year period. A new discovery was made, the South Mine Complex (“SMC”), which now
contributes approximately 70% of all ore production.
While previous exploration efforts were focussed substantially on the areas in, or around the
former Macassa property, the Company now intends to explore eastwards along strike to test
for new discoveries along the other four contiguous mine properties within the Kirkland Lake
Complex.
THREE YEAR HISTORY
Fiscal 2013 (May 1, 2012 – April 30, 2013)
Production and Exploration
In Fiscal 2013, the Company processed 304,062 tons of ore at a head grade of 0.31 opt (10.6
g/t) and a recovery rate of 95.8% to produce 91,518 ounces of gold. Production in the year was
adversely affected by fires in the area which caused a power outage.
During Fiscal 2013, development work by the Company included:
Ongoing upgrades to the No. 3 Shaft aimed towards future hoisting capacity increases.
Continuation of the ramp project construction phase.
The continuation of work on a loading pocket upgrade at the 51 Level, a main production
hoist upgrade, a pumping system upgrade, and a milling expansion to 2,200 tpd.
A daily production increase to more than 1,000 tpd by year end.
An increase in available production areas to more than 70.
Exploration conducted throughout the year focused on expansion of the SMC to the east and
surface drilling on the near surface target located on the South Claims which were incorporated
into the year end update of Reserves and Resources as at December 31, 2012, filed on SEDAR
(www.sedar.com) and available on the Company’s website at www.klgold.com.
On March 27, 2012, the Company signed an agreement to acquire Queenston Mining Inc.’s
(“Queenston”) 50% interest in the seven joint venture properties the two companies owned in
the Kirkland Lake camp. The purchase price of $60 million was paid in three tranches, $10
million on signing the agreement, $20 million at closing on August 30, 2012 and the final $30
million plus interest was released from escrow on June 28, 2013. Future payments will be owed
if and when gold produced from these properties exceeds 1,300,000 ounces. For the first
1,000,000 ounces produced above this threshold, the Company will pay the Canadian Malartic
Partnership, (formerly Osisko Mining Ltd., formerly Queenston), $15 an ounce and, for any gold
produced above 2,300,000 ounces, the Company will pay $20 an ounce
10
The properties purchased consist of the South, HM and East Claims and the North
Amalgamated Kirkland and the Kirkland Hudson Properties, all of which were adjacent to the
Company’s land position at the time, and the Kirkland Lake West and the Gracie West
Properties to the west, which the Company believes may contain the west extension of the Main
Break. On completion of the purchase, the Company increased its 100% land ownership to 10
kilometres of strike length in the camp.
Financial Transactions
On July 19, 2012, the Company completed a $57.5 million ($54.8 million net of expenses)
private placement of convertible unsecured subordinated debentures (the “6% Debentures”).
The 6% Debentures mature on June 30, 2017 unless earlier redeemed (permitted after June 30,
2014) and bear 6% interest, accruing, calculated and payable semi-annually in arrears on June
30 and December 31 of each year. The 6% Debentures are convertible at the holder’s option
into Common Shares at any time prior to the close of business on the earlier of the business
day immediately preceding their maturity and the business day immediately preceding the date
fixed for redemption of the 6% Debentures, at a conversion price of $15.00 per Common Share,
being a ratio of 66.6667 Common Shares per $1,000 principal amount of 6% Debentures.
On November 7, 2012, the Company completed a $69.0 million ($65.8 million net of expenses)
private placement of convertible unsecured subordinated debentures (the “7.5% Debentures”).
The 7.5% Debentures mature on December 31, 2017, unless earlier redeemed (permitted after
December 31, 2015) and bear 7.5% interest, accruing, calculated and payable semi-annually in
arrears on June 30 and December 31 of each year. The 7.5% Debentures are convertible at the
holder’s option into Common Shares at any time prior to the close of business on the earlier of
the business day immediately preceding their maturity and the business day immediately
preceding the date fixed for redemption of the 7.5% Debentures, at a conversion price of $13.70
per Common Share, being a ratio of 72.9927 common shares per $1,000 principle amount of
7.5% Debentures.
The 6% and the 7.5% Debentures (together the “Debentures”) rank subordinate in right of
payment of principal and interest to all present and future senior obligations of the Company
and rank pari passu to all present and future unsecured indebtedness. The net funds raised by
the issuance of the Debentures were used to finance a portion of the expansion project at the
operation, to complete the payments due in respect of the Company’s acquisition of various joint
venture projects in 2013 and for general corporate purposes including working capital. The
Debentures are listed on the TSX under the stock symbols KGI.DB for the 6% and KGI.DB.A for
the 7.5%.
On October 31, 2013, the Company entered into a 2.5% net smelter return (NSR) royalty with
Franco-Nevada Company (FNV), for proceeds of US$50.0 million (C$51.2 million based on the
prevailing exchange rate at the time). The funds were used for development of the Company’s
properties. The NSR royalty is payable quarterly to FNV on production from the Company’s
properties. The Company has the option to buy back 1% of the NSR on or before October 31,
2016, for US$36.0 million less the royalty proceeds attributable to the buyback portion of the
NSR that has been paid to FNV prior to the date of the buy back. At April 30, 2015, $7,791,517
had been paid and accrued under the NSR royalty.
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Fiscal 2014 (May 1, 2013 – April 30, 2014)
Corporate Matters
The Company announced a number of executive management changes including the
resignation of the resignation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Operating Officer,
resulting in the appointment of Mr. George Ogilvie as Chief Executive Officer on November 18,
2013.
On January 6, 2014, the Company announced it had entered into a strategic review process to
explore potential alternatives including the potential sale of the Company. The strategic review
concluded on March 31, 2014, as no transactions materialized.
Production and Exploration
In Fiscal 2014, the Company processed 385,837 tons at a head grade of 0.33 opt (11.3 g/t) with
a recovery rate of 95.0% to produce 122,309 ounces of gold.
During Fiscal 2014, development work by the Company included:
Completion of upgrades to No. 3 Shaft providing a hoisting capacity of 3,200 tons per
day of ore and waste combined.
Completion of the South Mine Complex ramp construction including the installation of
ore passes, rock breaker station and battery bay charging stations.
Completion of the loading pocket upgrade at the 51 Level, the main production hoist
upgrade and the milling expansion to 2,200 tons per day. By fiscal year end the new
primary ball mill had been wet commissioned.
During the year the Company achieved a production rate of 1,057 tpd and increased the
available production areas to more than 80.
Exploration during the year focused on continued expansion of the SMC onto the South Claims,
infill drilling to bring measured and indicated resources into the proven and probable reserve
category and follow-up drilling on a near surface target (see NI 43-101 Reserves and Resources
Estimate as at December 31, 2013, filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, or on the Company’s
website at www.klgold.com).
Fiscal 2015 (May 1, 2014 – April 30, 2015)
Corporate Matters
On May 27, 2014, the Company appointed Mr. Chris Stewart, P.Eng.,as Vice President
Operations. At the Company’s Annual Meeting held on October, 22 2014, three of the former
Directors did not stand for re-election and three new Directors were elected: Mr. Barry Cooper
(a former analyst with Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce), Mr. Barry Olson (former Sr. VP of
Projects with Goldcorp Inc.), and Mr. Jeffrey Parr (the current CFO with Centerra Gold).
On February 20, 2015, the Company appointed Mr. Eric Sprott as Chairman of the Board, and
Mr. Harry Dobson resigned his position.
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Production and Exploration
In Fiscal 2015, the Company processed 369,976 tons at a head grade of 0.43 opt (14.7 g/t) with
a recovery rate of 96.0% to produce 153,957 ounces of gold.
During Fiscal 2015, development by the Company of the Mine Complex and Mill included:
Continuation of the main haulage ramp down to the 5400L of the SMC deposit and
subsequent development of 4 new stopes on 5400L.
Work continues on the 5400L truck chute load out area which will service 5400L when it
is completed later in Fiscal 2016.
During the year the Company achieved a production rate of 1,022 tpd.
Exploration during the year focused on continued expansion of the SMC onto the South Claims,
as well as underground drilling that encountered mineralization above the 3400 Level on the ’04
Break, and continued surface drilling on the near surface target.
The updated NI 43-101 Reserves and Resources Estimate (as at December 31, 2014),
highlighted property wide reserves of 2,595,000 tons at an average grade of 0.56 opt or 19.2g/t,
for 1,463,000 ounces of proven and probable reserves. Resources included 4,202,000 tons at
an average grade of 0.49 opt (16.8 g/t), for 2,047,000 ounces of measured and indicated
resources, plus 2,114,000 tons at an average grade of 0.56 opt (19.2 g/t), of inferred resources
for 1,177,000 ounces
Financial Transactions
In July 2014, the Company completed a private placement financing pursuant to which
1,795,000 flow-through Common Shares were issued at a subscription price of $3.90 per share
for total gross proceeds of $7,500,499.50.
On February 10, 2015, the Company completed a $35 million public bought deal financing (the
“Offering”), by way of a short form prospectus, pursuant to which 6,900,000 Common Shares of
the Company were issued at a price of $4.35 for gross proceeds of approximately $30 million
and an over-allotment option was exercised resulting in an additional 1,035,000 Common
Shares of the Company being issued for total gross proceeds of approximately $35 million. The
net proceeds of the Offering will be used for general corporate purposes and working capital.
On April 3, 2015, the Company launched a Normal Course Issuer Bid (“NCIB”) through the
facilities of the TSX to purchase up to $5,750,000 of the 6% Debentures, and up to $6,900,000
of the 7.5% Debentures. Purchases of the 6% Debentures and 7.5% Debentures pursuant to
the NCIB may be made through the facilities of the TSX during the period from April 3, 2015 to
April 2, 2016, or such earlier time as the NCIB is completed or terminated at the option of the
Company. The Company will pay the market price at the time of acquisition for any securities
purchased through the facilities of the TSX. All securities purchased by the Company under the
NCIB will be cancelled. On April 9, 2015, the Company repurchased 50,000 units of the 7.5%
Debentures at a price of $96.50 per unit.
On May 19, 2015, the Company announced it would be changing its fiscal year end from April
30 to a December 31. As such there will be an eight month period from May 1, 2015 to
December 31, 2015, which will be referred to as the Company’s Stub Year. The new fiscal year
will commence January 1, 2016. (see MD&A for more details regarding this change).
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DESCRIPTION OF THE COMPANY’S BUSINESS
PRINCIPAL MARKETS
Since commencing production at its mining and milling facilities, the Company has received its
revenue from, and it anticipates its markets will continue to be, the North American gold bullion
markets.
DISTRIBUTION METHODS
The Company markets the gold bullion produced (in the form of doré) from its operation through
direct sales to gold bullion industry participants, including multinational specialty chemical and
precious metals company Asahi Holdings Inc., of Japan, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce,
Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Company Holdings plc (HSBC) Bank Canada and Auramet
Trading LLC.
PURCHASERS
All of the Company’s gold sales are to arm’s length parties.
PRODUCTION AND SERVICES
Mining methods used by the Company vary from long-hole and conventional mechanized cut-
and-fill mining to conventional captive cut-and-fill mining, and other equally labour intensive
mining methods. The Company’s long-term projections are for the mining to be carried out on
the basis of approximately 5% long-hole, 70% conventional mechanized cut-and-fill, 15%
conventional cut-and-fill and 10% development, although
these percentages vary as
circumstances warrant.
SPECIALIZED SKILL AND KNOWLEDGE
Many aspects of the Company’s business require specialized skills and knowledge, including
but not limited to areas of geology, mining, engineering, milling and production, mechanical,
electrical, and pipefitting installation and repair. Personnel with the requisite skills and
knowledge are readily available to the Company to meet its current needs in the current labour
market, with the exception of skilled conventional miners. (see “Risk Factors - Labour
Difficulties”, below)
COMPETITIVE CONDITIONS
Competition in the mineral exploration and production industry can be significant at times. The
Company competes with other mining companies, many of which have greater financial
resources and technical facilities, for the acquisition and development of, and production from,
mineral concessions, claims, leases and other interests, as well as for the recruitment and
retention of qualified employees and consultants.
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RAW MATERIALS (COMPONENTS)
The Company uses critical components such as water, sand and electrical power – all of which
are readily available.
BUSINESS CYCLE & SEASONALITY
The Company’s business is not cyclical or seasonal.
ECONOMIC DEPENDENCE
The Company’s business is not substantially dependent on any single commercial contract or
group of contracts either from suppliers or contractors. However, the Company is increasingly
more reliant on the battery supplier for its electric powered underground equipment.
RENEGOTIATION OR TERMINATION OF CONTRACTS
It is not expected that the Company’s business will be materially affected in the current financial
year by the renegotiation or termination of any contracts or sub-contracts.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
All phases of the Company’s operations are subject to environmental regulation in the jurisdiction
in which it operates.
Environmental legislation is evolving in a manner which requires stricter standards and
enforcement, increased fines and penalties for non-compliance, more stringent environmental
assessments of proposed projects and a heightened degree of responsibility for companies and
their officers, directors and employees. While manageable, the Company expects this evolution
(which affects most North American gold mining companies) could result in increased capital
costs and decreased production and revenue to the Company in the future, which could
adversely affect the Company’s earnings and competitive position.
In accordance with the Company’s mine closure plan filed with the Ministry of Northern
Development and Mines (“MNDM”), the Company has posted a letter of credit to secure the
costs of rehabilitating its current operation and three of the other former producing mines and
the properties surrounding the mines (see ‘Mineral Projects – Reclamation Bonds and Permits’).
The Company is liable for the full costs of such rehabilitation and, if such rehabilitation costs
exceed the amount of the letter of credit, would be obligated to fund the excess from its cash on
hand.
The Company believes it is in material compliance with all applicable environmental legislation
and regulations affecting its operations.
EMPLOYEES
As of April 30, 2015, the Company had 178 salaried employees (including three officers), 813
hourly employees, 5 contract employees (including one officer), 3 part-time employees and 3
students. With the exception of four employees, all employees work at the Company’s site
operations in Kirkland Lake, Ontario.
The Company’s workforce is not unionized.
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SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES
The Company has implemented various social and sustainability policies that are fundamental
to its operations, including policies regarding its relationship with the community in which it does
business, environmental policies, policies which govern the manner in which the Company
conducts its business with all of its stakeholders, consistent with the provincial Human Rights
code of Ontario.
As one of the leading employers in the town of Kirkland Lake, the Company engages in a
variety of civic oriented activities reflecting its social activism, including:
• Sponsoring local hockey teams, the Hockey North Heritage Centre, Army Cadets, Air
Cadets, and the Kirkland Lake Chamber of Commerce and various community events
Providing the services of a full time nurse practitioner for our employees and their
immediate families which in turn takes pressure off of the local health care system
Providing co-operative and apprentice opportunities to university and college students in
various disciplines
• Hiring from the local area for all entry level positions
• Participating in Kirkland Festivals Committee annual events to help provide arts and
entertainment opportunities for employees and residents of Kirkland Lake.
The Company has also implemented an overall HSEC Policy (Occupational Heath, Safety,
Environment and Community Policy), which outlines: its commitment to the safety of its
employees, contractors and stakeholders; operating within a sound environmental program; and
engaging with relevant stakeholders in the community in which it operates.
RISK FACTORS
The Company faces a number of financial, operational and business risks and uncertainties.
The occurrence of any of these risks could have a materially adverse impact on the Company’s
operations and financial condition and the value of its securities. Certain material risks specific
to the Company’s business and its industry are summarized below. Additional risks and
uncertainties not currently known to the Company, or that are currently not considered material,
may also impair the Company’s operations.
Single-Asset Operation
The Company’s only producing mineral property is the Mine Complex. Any adverse
development affecting the Mine Complex, its future potential for production or operations could
have a material adverse impact on the Company. The Company’s production, profitability and
financial performance would be affected.
Commodity Prices
Gold prices fluctuate widely and are affected by various factors beyond the Company’s control,
including but not limited to: the sale or purchase of metals by various central banks and financial
institutions, inflation or deflation, fluctuation in the value of the United States dollar, and global
political and economic conditions. Declines in the prices of gold may adversely affect the
Company’s development and mining activities, Common Share price, financial results, life-of-
mine plans and viability of mining projects. Although the Company believes that the
fundamentals of supply and demand will remain stable in the future and participants in various
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sectors will continue to support the gold price despite uncertainties in the global economy, there
is no guarantee that the gold price will not materially decrease. For the year ended April 30,
2015, the Company did not utilize any hedging programs to mitigate the effect of commodity
price movement
Fluctuating Foreign Currency Exchange Rates
The Company sells the gold it produces, raises its equity and maintains its accounts in
Canadian dollars. Because the world gold market is principally priced in United States dollars, a
substantial increase in the value of the Canadian dollar would adversely affect the Company’s
revenue and net income.
The Company’s gold sales or contracts are denominated in both Canadian and US dollars. As
at April 30, 2015, the Company held forward contracts to sell US dollars in order to protect
against the risk of an increase in the value of the Canadian dollar versus the US dollar (refer to
the MD&A).
Availability and Costs of Infrastructure, Energy and Other Commodities
Mining, processing, capital development projects and exploration activities depend on adequate
infrastructure. Reliable access to energy and power sources and water supply are important
factors that affect capital and operating costs. If the Company does not have timely access to
adequate infrastructure, there is no assurance that it will be able to start or continue exploiting
and development projects, complete them on timely basis or at all, that the ultimate operations
will achieve the anticipated production volume, or that construction costs and operating costs
will not be higher than before.
The profitability of the Company’s business is also affected by the market prices and availability
of commodities and resources which are consumed or otherwise used in connection with the
Company’s operations and development projects such as diesel fuel, electricity, finished steel,
tires, steel, chemicals and reagents. Prices of such commodities and resources are also subject
to volatile price movements, which can be material and can occur over short periods of time due
to factors beyond the Company’s control.
If there is a significant and sustained increase in the cost of certain commodities, the Company
may decide that it is not economically feasible to continue all of the Company’s commercial
production and development activities and this could have an adverse effect on profitability.
Higher worldwide demand for critical resources like input commodities, drilling equipment,
mobile mining equipment, tires and skilled labour could affect the Company’s ability to acquire
them and lead to delays in delivery and unanticipated cost increases, which could have an
effect on the Company’s operating costs, capital expenditures and production schedules.
Further, the Company relies on certain key third-party suppliers and contractors for services,
equipment, raw materials used in, and the provision of services necessary for, the development,
construction and continuing operation of its assets. As a result, the Company’s activities at its
Kirkland Lake mine-site are subject to a number of risks some of which are outside its control,
including negotiating agreements with suppliers and contractors on acceptable terms, the
inability to replace a supplier or a contractor and its equipment, raw materials or services in the
event that either party terminates the agreement, interruption of operations or increased costs in
the event that a supplier or contractor ceases its business due to insolvency or other unforeseen
event and failure of a supplier or contractor to perform under its agreement with the Company.
The occurrences of one or more of these events could have a material effect on the business,
16
results of operations and financial condition of the Company.
Uncertainty of Production Estimates
Future estimates of gold production for the Company’s operation as a whole are derived from a
mining plan and these estimates are subject to change. There is no assurance the production
estimates will be achieved and failure to achieve production estimates could have a materially
adverse effect on the Company’s future cash flow, results of operations and financial condition.
These plans are based on, among other things, mining experience, reserve estimates,
assumptions regarding ground conditions and physical characteristics of ores and estimated
rates and costs of production. Actual ore production may vary from estimates for a variety of
reasons, including risks and hazards of the types discussed above for the reasons set forth
below:
• Unplanned mining dilution
• Actual ore mined varying from estimates in grade, tonnage, metallurgical and other
characteristics
• Mining labour shortages
• Cave-ins or stope failures
• Equipment failures
• Unplanned interruptions of power or changes in power costs
•
• Natural phenomena such as severe inclement weather, floods and flooding, fires,
Industrial accidents
blizzards, droughts, rock slides and earthquakes
• Encountering unusual or unexpected ground conditions
• Shortages of principal supplies needed for operation, including fuels, tires, and spare
parts
• Restrictions imposed by governmental agencies
• Environmental incidents
• Permitting or licensing issues
Such occurrences could result in damage to mineral properties, interruptions in production,
money losses and legal liabilities and could cause a mineral property that has been mined
profitably in the past to become unprofitable.
Any decrease in production or change to the timing of production or the prices realized for gold
sales, will directly affect the amount and timing of the cash flow from operations. A production
shortfall or any of these other factors would change the timing of the Company’s projected cash
flow and its ability to use the cash to fund capital expenditures.
There is Uncertainty of the Nature and Amount of the Company’s Gold Resources and
Reserves
Mineral reserves and mineral resources are estimates of the size and grade of deposits based
on limited sampling and on certain assumptions and parameters. No assurance can be given
that the estimates will be accurate, that the anticipated tonnages and grades will be achieved or
that the indicated level of the recovery of gold will be realized or mined or processed profitably.
17
The proven and probable mineral reserve figures in this AIF are estimates and may need to be
revised based on various factors such as
• Actual production experience
• Fluctuations in the market price of gold
• Results of drilling or metallurgical testing
• Production costs
• Recovery rates
The cut off grades for the mineral reserves and resources are based on the Company’s
assumptions about plant recovery, gold value, mining dilution and recovery, and its estimates
for operating and capital costs, which are based on historical production figures. The Company
may have to recalculate its estimated mineral reserve and resources based on actual production
or the results of exploration.
There are uncertainties inherent in estimating proven and probable mineral reserves and
measured, indicated, and inferred resources, including many factors beyond the Company’s
control. Estimating reserves and resources is a subjective process. Accuracy depends on the
quantity and quality of available data and assumptions and judgements used in engineering and
geological interpretation, which may be unreliable. It is inherently impossible to have full
knowledge of particular geologic structures, faults, voids, intrusions, natural variations in and
within rock types and other occurrences. Failure to identify such occurrences in the Company’s
assessment of mineral reserves and resources may have a materially adverse effect on future
cash flow, results of operations and financial condition.
The Company adjusts its mineral reserves and resources annually by the amount of gold
extracted in the previous year, by the addition and reductions resulting from new geologic
information and interpretation, actual mining experience and from changes in operating costs
and metal prices. Furthermore, the historical gold production from the Company’s mining
properties is no assurance that they will contain deposits of gold greater than those currently
estimated to exist by the Company. If such estimates prove to be materially overstated, that
would have a materially adverse effect on the Company’s business and results of operations as
the Company would be unable to maintain its mining operations for the length of time presently
contemplated.
Financing Risk
The ability of the Company to arrange additional financing in the future will depend, in part, on
the prevailing debt and equity market conditions, the price of gold, the performance of the
Company and other factors outlined herein. There can be no assurance that additional capital or
other types of financing will be available if needed or that, if available, the terms of such
financing will be favourable to the Company.
If the Company raises additional funds through the sale of equity securities or securities
convertible into equity securities, shareholders may have their equity interest in the Company
diluted.
In addition, failure to comply with covenants under the Company’s current or future debt
agreements or to make scheduled payments of the principal of, or to pay interest on, its
indebtedness or to make scheduled payments under hedging arrangements would likely result
in an event of default under the debt agreements and would allow the lenders to accelerate the
18
debt under these agreements, which may affect the Company’s financial condition.
The Company’s Activities are subject to Extensive Governmental Regulation and
Permitting Requirements
Exploration, development and mining of minerals are subject to extensive federal, provincial and
local laws and regulations governing the acquisition of the mining interests, prospecting,
development, mining, production, exports, taxes, labour standards, occupational health, waste
disposal, toxic substances, land use, environmental protection, mine safety and other matters.
No assurances can be given that new rules and regulations will not be enacted or that existing
rules and regulations will not be applied in a manner which could have an adverse effect on the
Company’s financial position and operations.
These laws and regulations are administered by various governmental authorities including:
(a) the federal government of Canada
- Canada Customs and Revenue Agency (taxation)
- Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency, Environment Canada
(environmental protection)
- Natural Resources Canada (land use and conservation)
(b) the government of Ontario
- MNDM (mineral tenure, development and use)
- Ministry of Natural Resources (land use and conservation)
- Ministry of the Environment (environmental protection)
- Ministry of Finance (taxation)
- Ministry of Labour (labour rights and relations)
(c) the town of Kirkland Lake, Ontario
- tax assessment
- building permitting
- business licensing
In addition, the current and future operations of the Company, from exploration through
development activities and production, require permits, licences and approvals from some of
these governmental authorities. The Company has obtained all government licenses, permits
and approvals necessary for the operation of its business to date. However, additional licenses,
permits and approvals may be required. The failure to obtain any licenses, permits or approvals
that may be required or the revocation of existing ones would have a materially adverse effect
on the Company, its business and results of operations.
Failure to comply with applicable laws, regulations and permits may result in enforcement
actions thereunder, including orders issued by regulatory or judicial authorities requiring the
Company’s operations to cease or be curtailed, and may include corrective measures requiring
capital expenditures, installation of additional equipment or remedial actions. The Company may
be required to compensate those suffering loss or damage by reason of its mineral exploration
activities and may have civil or criminal fines or penalties imposed for violations of such laws,
regulations and permits. Any such events could have a materially adverse effect on the
Company and its business and could result in the Company not meeting its business objectives.
Amendments to current laws, regulations and permits governing operations and activities of
mining companies, or more stringent implementation thereof, could have a material adverse
impact on the Company and cause increases in capital expenditures or production costs or
reduced levels of production at producing properties or require abandonment or delays in
19
development of its mining properties.
Tax Matters
The Company’s taxes are affected by a number of factors, some of which are outside of its
control, including the application and interpretation of the relevant tax laws and treaties. If the
Company’s filing position, application of tax incentives or similar ‘holidays’ or benefits were to be
challenged for whatever reason, this could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s
business, results of operations and financial condition.
The Company is subject to routine tax audits by various tax authorities. Tax audits may result in
additional tax, interest payments and penalties which would negatively affect the Company’s
financial condition and operating results. New laws and regulations or changes in tax rules and
regulations or the interpretation of tax laws by the courts or the tax authorities may also have a
substantial negative impact on the Company’s business. There is no assurance that the
Company’s current financial condition will not be materially adversely affected in the future due
to such changes.
Information technology
The Company is reliant on the continuous and uninterrupted operations of its Information
Technology (“IT”) systems. User access and security of all IT systems are critical elements to
the operations of the Company. Protection against cyber security incidents and cloud security,
and security of all of the Company’s IT systems are critical to the operations of the Company.
Any IT failure pertaining to availability, access or system security could result in disruption for
personnel and could adversely affect the reputation, operations or financial performance of the
Company.
The Company’s IT systems could be compromised by unauthorized parties attempting to extract
business sensitive, confidential or personal information, corrupting information or disrupting
business processes or by inadvertent or intentional actions by the Company’s employees or
vendors. A cyber security incident resulting in a security breach or failure to identify a security
threat, could disrupt business and could result in the loss of business sensitive, confidential or
personal information or other assets, as well as litigation, regulatory enforcement, violation of
privacy and security laws and regulations and remediation costs.
Dependency on Various Key Personnel
The Company’s success is dependent upon the performance of key personnel working in
management, supervisory or as consultants. The loss of the services of senior management or
key personnel could have a materially adverse effect on the Company, its business and results
of operations.
Labour Difficulties
Factors such as work slowdowns or stoppages caused by the attempted unionization of
operations and difficulties in recruiting qualified miners and hiring and training new miners could
materially adversely affect the Company’s business. This would have a negative effect on the
Company’s business and results of operations; which might result in the Company not meeting
its business objectives
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The Company’s workforce is not unionized and currently has sufficient skilled miners to carry on
operations. There are currently no material labour shortages with the Company operating near
its budgeted manning levels (see “Employees”, above).
The Company’s Activities might suffer Losses from or Liabilities for Risks which are not
Insured
Hazards such as unusual or unexpected geological formations and other conditions are involved
in mineral exploration and development and mining. The Company may become subject to
liability for pollution, cave-ins or hazards against which it cannot insure or against which it may
elect not to insure. The payment of such liabilities would have a material, adverse effect on the
Company’s financial position and results of operations.
Although the Company maintains liability insurance in an amount which it considers adequate,
the nature of these risks is such that liabilities might exceed policy limits, the liabilities and
hazards might not be insurable against, or the Company might not elect to insure itself against
such liabilities due to high premium costs or other reasons, in which event the Company could
incur significant costs that could have a materially adverse effect upon its financial condition and
results of operations.
Environmental Protection Requirements
All phases of the Company’s operations are subject to environmental regulation. Environmental
legislation is evolving in a manner which will require stricter standards and enforcement,
increased fines and penalties for non-compliance, more stringent environmental assessments of
proposed projects and a heightened degree of responsibility for companies and their officers,
directors and employees. Future changes in environmental regulation could adversely affect the
Company’s operations by increasing costs and reducing profitability.
The Company has posted, in accordance with a mine closure plan filed with the MNDM, a letter
of credit to secure the costs of rehabilitating the No. 3 shaft of the former Macassa Mine, and
three of the four other non-operating mines. See ‘Mineral Projects – Reclamation Bonds and
Permits’. Failure to comply with the Company’s mine closure plan would result in some or all of
such letter of credit being drawn down and the Company being liable for the cost of such
amounts. In addition, it is possible that such letter of credit is not sufficient to secure all of the
reclamation costs for which the Company could become liable.
Title to the Company’s Mining Claims and Leases
While the Company has carried out reviews of title to its mining claims and leases, this should
not be construed as a guarantee that title to such interests will not be challenged or impugned.
The mining claims and leases may be subject to prior unregistered agreements or transfers or
native land claims, and title may be affected by undetected defects. The Company has had
difficulty in registering ownership of certain titles in its own name due to the demise of the
original vendors of such titles when owned by the Company’s predecessors-in-title. Any material
title defects would have a materially adverse effect on the Company, its business and results of
operations.
The Mining Industry is Speculative and of a High Risk Nature
Mining activities are speculative by their nature and involve a high degree of risk, which even a
combination of experience, knowledge and careful evaluation may not be able to overcome. The
21
Company’s drilling activities are an exploratory search for additional gold deposits. Such
exploration is subject to the risk that little or no mineralization is discovered or that any deposits
discovered are not economical. If this occurs, the Company’s existing gold resources and
reserves may not be sufficient to sustain operations for a lengthy period. This will have an
adverse effect on the Company’s revenues over the long-term.
The Company’s mining activities are subject to a number of factors beyond its control including
intense industry competition and changes in economic conditions, including some operating
costs such as electrical power. Its operations are subject to all the hazards normally incidental
to exploration, development and production of gold, any of which could result in work
stoppages, damage to or loss of property and equipment and possible environmental damage.
There are also risks related to the reliance on the reliability of current and new or developing
technology; the reliance on the work performance of outside consultants, contractors, and
manufacturers; changes to project parameters over which the Company does not have
complete control such as the gold price or labour or material costs; unknown or unanticipated or
underestimated costs or expenses; unknown or unanticipated or underestimated additions to
the scope of work due to changing or adverse conditions encountered as the mine is
refurbished and redeveloped; unexpected variances in the geometry or quality of ore zones;
unexpected reclamation requirements or expenses; permitting time lines; unexpected or
unknown ground conditions; changes to Mine Life as the result of an unexpected incident or a
decline in gold prices or an unexpected rise in costs; unexpected changes to estimated
parameters utilized to estimate past timelines, projections, or costs; and liquidity risks.
An adverse change in any one of such factors, hazards and risks would have a material adverse
effect on the Company, its business and results of operations. This might result in the Company
not meeting its business objectives.
The Company’s Officers and Directors may have Conflicts of Interest
There may be potential conflicts of interest for some of the Company’s officers and directors
engaged, or who may become engaged, as officers or directors of other companies in the same
business as the Company. See ‘Directors and Officers – Conflicts of Interest’.
MINERAL PROJECTS
The Company’s material tangible fixed assets (property, plant and equipment) are located at the
Mine Complex in Kirkland Lake, Ontario. These assets and the Mine Complex are described
below.
FIXED ASSETS – PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
The facilities at the Mine Complex consist of a mill and a paste plant, offices, changing facilities,
laboratory, warehouse, and mechanical and electrical shops.
The processing plant has been in place since 1988. The mill is a conventional carbon-in-pulp
processing facility. Various modifications have been carried out to increase the plant’s rated
capacity to 2,200 tpd.
22
The Mine Complex has two shafts both currently being used. Service Shaft No. 2 reaches a
depth of 4,625 feet below surface, and has a sub-shaft (called a winze down to 6,900 feet), and
is used as an airway and secondary escape-way. Production Shaft No. 3 was sunk in 1984 one
mile west of Shaft No. 2 to a depth of 7,050 feet. At present the shaft is not operational below
the 5725 Level due to significant shaft damage which occurred in 1997. It is equipped with a
hoist having a capacity of 3,200 tons per day. A personnel hoist has been added to serve the
No. 3 compartment of the No. 3 Shaft to further increase production and improve hoisting
capabilities and efficiencies.
MINING PROPERTIES – DESCRIPTION AND LOCATION
The Company’s Kirkland Lake mining properties consist of patented (surveyed) and unpatented
(staked and not surveyed) mining claims and crown leases, located near Kirkland Lake, Ontario.
From west to east, the past producing properties include the Macassa, Kirkland Minerals, Teck-
Hughes, Lake Shore and Wright-Hargreaves properties.
The properties are in eastern Teck Township and western Lebel Township in the district of
Timiskaming, Ontario and consist of:
Interest
Patented claims
Mining Rights Only
Mining and Surface Rights
Surface Rights Only
Staked claims
Crown leases
Total:
Number of
Claims / Leases
61(1)
100
25
56
11
253
Area
(Ha)
860
1,365
1,504
306
4,035
Earliest
Expiration
N/A
N/A
May 2016 (2 claims)
August 30, 2017 (1 lease)
–
(1) The claims do not have an expiry date but to keep them in good standing the Company must make
annual ‘Mining Rights tax’ payments as described below in the following table.
To maintain these mining interests in good standing, the following payments, share issuances,
and minimum levels of exploration must be carried out, and payment of taxes to the MNDM and
town of Kirkland Lake, Ontario and advance royalties to various royalty holders must be made:
Nature
Exploration (annual)
Provincial land taxes on mineral interests and mining rights (annual)
Regional land taxes (annual)
Municipal and miscellaneous taxes (annual)
Advance and minimum royalties (annual)
TOTAL
Amount
(C$)
$36,800(1)
9,603
300
939,700
53,000(2)
$1,035,978
(1) The unpatented (staked) claims will not require these exploration expenditures to be incurred until
2016, 2018 and 2019 since previous exploration expenditures on the claims can be carried forward
and applied to keep them in good standing until then.
(2) An advance royalty of $10,000 per year is also payable on the Macassa Property when the Mine is in
production from certain claims subject to a royalty in favour of Franco-Nevada Corporation.
23
Some of the mining interests are subject to a royalty payable to previous owners. The royalties
differ depending on the claim and range from net smelter royalties of 1% to 2%, production
royalties of $0.10, $0.25, $1.50, $3.00 or $4.00 per ton of ore mined or net profits royalties of
2% to 5% while some claims have a royalty of 1% of gross proceeds from production or a net
profit royalty of 20%.
RECLAMATION BONDS AND PERMITS
As part of the permitting process for the development and commercial operation of the Macassa
Mine and Lake Shore Mine, the former owner of the Mine Complex, Kinross Gold Corporation,
prepared closure plans for both the Macassa and Lake Shore Mines. The MNDM approved the
plans in 1999. Financial bonds totalling $2,043,435 for the Macassa Mine ($1,481,795) and the
Lake Shore Mine ($561,640) were posted by Kinross with the MNDM. Upon acquisition of the
properties from Kinross, the Company assumed responsibility for these bonds and reimbursed
Kinross for them.
On February 1, 2008, the Company submitted a Closure Plan Amendment (“CPA”) to the
MNDM for the Macassa and Lake Shore properties as well as the Teck-Hughes and Kirkland
Mineral properties. A letter of credit of $4,452,597 was arranged to meet the future obligations
associated with the CPA. On April 17, 2008, the MNDM returned to the Company $2,275,309
representing the two mine closure bonds (Macassa and Lake Shore), plus accrued interest,
assumed from Kinross. By letter dated May 12, 2008, the MNDM advised the Company that the
revised mine CPA did not address all of its prescribed requirements and, on September 25,
2008, the Company received the MNDM’s technical comments on the revised plan.
In March 2011, the Company submitted a Certified, Limited Scope CPA dated March 3, 2011
with the principal objective of expanding the closure plan boundary to include the Kirkland
Minerals, Teck-Hughes, and then Joint Venture Properties. This CPA was accepted by the
MNDM on April 29, 2011. As a result, the Company can conduct advanced exploration or
mining on those properties.
The Company retained Golder Associates and Klohn Crippen Berger Consultants to undertake
the studies required for the Comprehensive Certified CPA. The financial assurance estimate in
the Comprehensive Certified CPA was increased from $4,452,597 to $6,798,424.
First Nation Consultation was a mandatory part of the Comprehensive Certified CPA.
Consultation was carried out with the Matachewan First Nation, the Wahgoshig First Nation, and
the Wabun Tribal Council. Contact was also made with the Métis Nation of Ontario.
The Comprehensive Certified CPA was reviewed by the Town of Kirkland Lake, the Ministry of
Natural Resources, the Ministry of the Environment and the MNDM. The Town of Kirkland Lake
did not comment on the CPA. The Ministry of Natural Resources, Ministry of the Environment
and the MNDM posed a number of questions. The adequacy of the $6,798,424 financial
assurance was raised in these questions. A response to the questions was submitted to the
MNDM on May 17, 2012, including reasons why $6,798,424 was adequate. Also included in the
response was a commitment to conduct additional studies under progressive rehabilitation. The
major study to be carried out was a study of the potential for the Lakeshore Basin to support fish
once mining has stopped and the water level is restored to historical levels. This study was
completed in March 2013 and submitted to the MNDM.
24
By letter dated June 6, 2012 from the Director of Mine Rehabilitation, the Comprehensive
Certified CPA was filed (accepted). On October 29, 2012, a Notice of Material Change was
submitted to the MNDM for the increased mill capacity. The MNDM responded with a request
that a Certified Amendment to the Closure plan be submitted. The Certified Amendment was
submitted on March 28, 2013 and the Financial Assurance was increased to $6,863,959. On
February 4, 2014 the Company was advised by the MNDM that one item was not addressed in
the addendum, namely removal of fixed equipment on site. This was addressed to the MNDM
by follow up letter and supporting documentation April 25, 2014. The addition of removal of fixed
equipment increased the Financial Assurance requirement and as such the amount was
increased to $7,052,375.
By letter dated October 27, 2008, the MNDM advised the Company that it also required the
Company to describe how and when any hazards on the Wright-Hargreaves Property will be
rehabilitated. Neither the Wright Hargreaves Property nor Mine are included in the revised
closure plan nor is there any financial assurance for their rehabilitation on deposit with the
MNDM. The Company responded by letter dated March 5, 2009 advising that a consultant was
retained to assist in the identification of any potential hazards and related rehabilitation
obligations. A letter dated June 15, 2011, to the MNDM outlined the rehabilitation plans for
Wright Hargreaves. The plans included the inspection of concrete shaft caps and concrete
artificial crown pillar caps in 2011 and a geotechnical study of crown pillars to be completed by
the end of 2014. The bulk of the geotechnical study has been completed. The study identified
that there was one crown pillar that could fail in the short term. This area has been cordoned off
and a MNDM certified cap was poured during the week commencing June 24, 2013 to
rehabilitate the weak crown. The geotechnical study and rehabilitation of pertinent risks was
completed in 2014.
In order to carry out mining and underground diamond drilling in the Mine Complex a dewatering
program is ongoing. The Ministry of the Environment has issued the Company a ‘Permit to Take
Water’ which allows the Company to pump up to 13,104,000 litres per day from the Mine. This
permit is valid until June 7, 2022.
The Company has all necessary permits to carry out its current business and any work
proposed to be carried out on its properties. The Company also has the right to carry out
exploration on all of its properties provided that, prior to doing so, it gives notice to the surface
owners if it does not own the surface rights to such properties.
On March 22, 2010, the Company received an Approval from the Ministry of Environment to
increase the height of its current tailings dam to hold an additional 6.1 million tonnes of tailings.
The original capacity of the tailings basin was 4.42 million tonnes. This increase allows for
operations beyond 2022 at a 2,000 tonne per day milling rate (assuming a yearly availability of
90% and the continued disposal of tailings underground as a component in paste backfill).
ACCESSIBILITY, CLIMATE, LOCAL RESOURCES AND PHYSIOGRAPHY
The town of Kirkland Lake, Ontario (approximate population 9,000) and its immediate
surroundings are located within the Canadian Shield and are surrounded by several lakes and
swamps. The local vertical relief is limited with Kirkland Lake sitting at 310 metres above mean
sea level. The immediate area is dominated by temperate boreal forest.
25
The annual precipitation in the area is 300 centimetres of snow in the winter and 59 centimetres
of rain in the summer. The average temperature ranges from minus 22.8 degrees Celsius in the
winter to 23.6 degrees Celsius in the summer.
Kirkland Lake and the Mining Complex are accessible by paved highways. The Mining Complex
is located approximately 125 kilometres southeast of Timmins, Ontario which has an all-
weather, jet capable airport with frequent scheduled service. Kirkland Lake is serviced by rail
and motor coach and has a small airport without scheduled service.
The Company is a large volume electric power user and is directly connected to the Ontario
electrical grid. Power is purchased at the wholesale price as determined by the Ontario
Independent Electrical System Operator. Ontario’s Electrical grid in the Kirkland Lake area is
not constrained. There is a 102 megawatt combined cycle cogeneration facility operated by
Algonquin Power in the immediate vicinity of the Company.
Sufficient sources of water are available for the Company’s operations.
HISTORY
In mid-1995 Kinross acquired the Macassa Mine, Lake Shore Mine and the mining properties on
which they were situated and the Wright-Hargreaves mining property from Barrick Gold
Corporation. Barrick had acquired these mines and properties as part of its take-over of Lac
Minerals Ltd. in September, 1994. Kinross acquired the Kirkland Minerals and Teck-Hughes
mining properties in 1998.
All five of the mining properties acquired by the Company and the formerly producing mines
developed thereon are located along a main structure known as the ‘Main Break’ and related
subsidiary zones. The first of the five to enter production was the Teck-Hughes Mine in 1917,
followed by Lake Shore (1918), Kirkland Minerals (1919), Wright-Hargreaves (1921) and
Macassa (1933).
The five former mining properties acquired by the Company have the following operating
profiles at the time of acquisition:
Mine
Period of Operation
Gold Produced (Ounces)
Macassa
Lake Shore
Teck-Hughes
Kirkland Minerals
Wright-Hargreaves
1933 – 1999
1918 – 1965
1917 – 1968
1919 – 1960
1921 – 1965
3,540,451
8,602,791 (1)
3,709,007 (1)
1,172,955
4,821,296 (1)
(1)
Includes production when owned by Lac Minerals Ltd. (1984 through 1988).
26
Macassa Mine
Overview
The Macassa Mine was in continuous production from 1933 until operations were suspended in
June 1999. The mine was the last of the five major gold mines to cease production. On May 14,
2002 the Company commenced production utilizing the previous infrastructure.
History
The original mine was developed on 11 mining claims by Macassa Mines Ltd. that organized in
1926 and obtained the assets of United Kirkland Gold Mines Ltd. in 1933. In 1962 it combined
with Bicroft Uranium Mines Ltd. and Renabie Mines Ltd. to become Macassa Gold Mines Ltd.
An amalgamation in November 1970 with Willroy Mines Ltd. and Willecho Mines Ltd. created
Little Long Lac Gold Mines, located in Toronto. Upper Canada Mine Ltd. optioned the mining
rights from 1970 to 1976. In December 1982, the amalgamation of several Companys, including
Little Long Lac Gold Mines, created Lac Minerals Ltd. It was during this period that the Tegren
Property was added to the original Macassa Property. In September 1994, Barrick successfully
took over Lac Minerals Ltd., and Kinross acquired the mine and its properties from Barrick in
May 1995.
The first shaft sunk on the property was the 500 foot Elliot shaft developed in the Main Break
Zone in the late 1920’s. Mining was unsuccessful and operations halted. In 1931, development
westward onto Macassa ground from the 2475 Level of the Kirkland Minerals Mine discovered
ore on the Main Break for 700 feet along strike and in subsidiary hangingwall veins. These
underground workings were connected with the 3100 foot long No. 1 shaft, and later by two
winzes to greater depths. The No. 1 winze connected the 3000 to 4625 Levels and the No. 2
winze the 4625 to 6875 Levels. The No. 2 shaft was sunk from surface to a depth of 4625 feet
about 1000 feet southwest of the No. 1 shaft. In 1986, the No. 3 Shaft was sunk from surface (in
what had been the Tegren Property) to the 7050 Level and then to a final 7225 Level. Until the
mid 1990s this was the deepest single-lift shaft in the Western Hemisphere. The No. 3 Shaft
was the most recent access shaft, and gave access to 21 levels from the 3800 to the 7050
Level until 1997. As a result of a rock burst on April 12, 1997, only the levels between the 4250
and 5150 Levels remained active. Exploration development was underway on the 3800 Level
when production was halted in 1999. Rehabilitation of levels down to the 5700 Level was in
progress prior to closure.
The first mill on the property began operation in October 1933 at a capacity of 200 tons per day.
The milling rate was increased to 425 tons per day in 1949 and to 500 to 525 tons per day in
1956. In August 1988 a new mill was built which could process 500 to 600 tons of rock and 750
tons of tailings per day. By 1996, modifications had increased capacity to 900 tons of rock per
day and 1,000 tons of tailings per day. When closed in 1999, mill capacity was near 1,600 tons
of rock per day, or 600 tons of rock and 1,400 tons of tailings per day. Based on a 2,000 ton per
day processing rate the plant tailings impoundment area of the mill has a capacity greater than
10 years. All of the appropriate permits for processing ore through the mill up to a rate of 2,200
tons per day are in place, except the Effluent Treatment Plant, (“ETP”); which is permitted to
1,750 tpd. A permit application for increasing the ETP was submitted in late 2014 and is
pending. The Company does not foresee any issues in attaining the revised permit.
Current Operations
See ‘Current and Proposed Exploration and Development’ following.
27
Lake Shore Mine
Overview
The Lake Shore Mine is located in the centre of the Kirkland Lake camp bounded to the west by
the Teck-Hughes mine and to the east by the Wright-Hargreaves mine. Lake Shore was by far
the largest gold producer of the five former producing mines producing 8,499,199 ounces at a
grade of 0.51 opt in continuous production from 1918 to 1965. This is almost twice the total
ounces of gold produced from the neighbouring second highest producer, Wright-Hargreaves,
and represents 36% of the total ounces produced from the entire camp. From 1984 to 1988 an
additional 103,592 ounces were subsequently recovered from pillars by Lac Minerals Ltd. for a
total of 8,602,791 ounces of gold recovered.
Gold was discovered on the property in 1911. From 1914 to 1918 the No. 1 Shaft was
developed to 400 feet on the South (No. 1) Vein Zone and 7,464 feet of underground
development on Levels at 100, 200, 300, and 400 feet was carried out. A 65 ton mill was
installed and milling began in 1918. All work was carried out by Lake Shore Gold Mines Limited.
History
From 1919 to 1965 the mine was eventually serviced by four surface shafts and three internal
shafts. The original No. 1 Shaft and its extension were both inactive during the latter years of
operations. The No. 4 Shaft, collared at 4325 Level, took the workings to a depth of 8,150 feet.
Underground development was carried out on 57 Levels and, during the life of the mine, totalled
279,238 feet of drifting, 108,317 feet of crosscutting, and 154,547 feet of raising. Milling capacity
was gradually increased to a maximum of 2,400 tons per day and production was continuous
until the mine closed in July 1965. Ore from the Wright-Hargreaves Mine was treated at the
Lake Shore Mill from 1957 until the closure of that mill in March 1965.
High-grade ore material on the bottom levels was being mined when the mine closed. Diamond
drilling below these levels indicated that the ore continues and that the Main Break shows no
signs of weakening at depth. Relatively low tonnage of ore at deeper levels and difficulties in
mining at these extreme depths proved deepening of the mine workings to be uneconomical
with the fixed gold prices in the 1960’s.
The Main Break and related sub-parallel structures strike continuously across the Lake Shore
Property but are offset by significant post-ore faulting along the Lake Shore fault at the east end
of the property. The North, or No. 2 vein, is the most productive and extensive structure at Lake
Shore. This structure is continuous from surface down to the 8075 Level and has been traced
by diamond drilling for 800 feet below this level. Between the 1200 and 4000 Levels the Main
Break branches into several faults.
Mining on the North (No. 2) vein was extensive throughout the mine. Of these zones, the area
containing mixed syenite porphyry and augite syenite west of the shaft area from surface to the
5450 Level was most productive. Occasionally sub-parallel veins were mined separately from
this vein, but in places the veins are closely spaced and have been stoped together across
widths up to 70 feet. Stoping was nearly continuous on the North vein from surface to the 5400
Level where veining weakened considerably and stopped at the 6325 Level.
28
Another ore shoot continues below this from the 7575 Level to the 8075 Level, the bottom level
of the mine. This ore shoot was traced by diamond drilling down to 8,500 Level and showed no
signs of weakening. The North vein on the 8075 Level was mined over an 807 foot strike length
at an average stoping width of 7.6 feet and an average grade of 0.68 opt.
Current Operations
The mine has been decommissioned.
Kirkland Minerals Mine
Overview
The Kirkland Minerals Mine is near the western end of the five mines bounded to the west by
the Macassa Mine and to the east by the Teck-Hughes Mine. A total of 1,172,955 ounces of
gold at an average grade of 0.37 opt was mined between 1919 and 1960.
History
The first reported discovery on the property was in 1911. In 1912 the Main Break was
discovered. In 1913 a two-compartment shaft (Kirkland Minerals No. 1) was sunk to 80 feet by
Kirkland Gold Mines Limited. The No. 1 shaft was deepened in 1915 to 200 feet and a level was
established at 175 feet by Beaver Consolidated Mines Limited (under option from Kirkland Lake
Gold Mines Limited).
From 1916 to 1918 Kirkland Lake Gold Mining Company Limited (controlled by Beaver
Consolidated Mines Limited) deepened the No. 1 shaft to 700 feet and sank another shaft (the
No. 2 main shaft) to 500 feet with Levels at 300, 400 and 500 feet. A 150 ton per day mill was
installed and production began in 1918.
In the early years of the mine, most gold production came from workings on the Main Break. In
1937 significant production started from the No. 5 vein. The No. 5 vein was a south dipping
hangingwall vein structure which was mined as a continuous sheet of ore from the 3475 Level to
the 3875 Level along a strike length of 1,200 feet. This vein rolls into the Main Break along a
line gently plunging to the west.
Current Operations
The mine has been decommissioned.
Teck-Hughes Mine
Overview
The Teck-Hughes Mine is bounded on the west by the Kirkland Minerals Mine and by Lake
Shore Mine to the east. The mine began production in 1917 and had produced 3,688,664
ounces of gold at a recovered grade of 0.38 opt when it ceased operating in 1968. In the latter
years of operation the mine relied heavily on lower grade ‘slough ore’ which had caved from the
hangingwalls of open stopes. From 1984 to 1988 Lac Minerals Ltd. mined the east boundary
pillar area of the Mine which adjoins the Lake Shore Mine, as well as some ore available within
the Teck-Hughes Mine accessible from the Lake Shore Ramp. It recovered a further 20,343
ounces for a total of 3,709,007 ounces of gold recovered.
29
History
In 1911 three claims, which were to form the most important part of the mine, were staked and
three neighbouring claims were staked. In 1912 gold was discovered on one of the neighbouring
claims. Prospecting and surface trenching was carried out by Teck-Hughes Gold Mines Limited
and a 35 foot shaft was sunk.
In 1913 the No. 1 Shaft was sunk to 212 feet and 203 feet of drifting was carried out on the 200
Level. The No. 2 Shaft was sunk to a depth of 75 feet with 500 feet of lateral development on
the 75 Level by Teck-Hughes Gold Mines Limited. From 1914 to 1915 the No. 3 Shaft was sunk
to 124 feet and an 85 foot winze was developed from the second level. A total of 1,360 feet of
lateral development in the No. 1 and No. 3 Shafts were carried out by Nipissing Mining
Company (under option from Teck-Hughes Gold Mines Limited).
From 1915 to 1917 the underground workings were dewatered and the No. 3 Shaft was
deepened to 400 feet with a winze to 600 feet, and 1,804 feet of lateral development was
carried out. In 1917, a 50 ton mill was installed and milling began. This work was completed by
Teck-Hughes Gold Mines Limited.
As with the other four mines, the most important structure at the Teck-Hughes mine is the Main
Break. This structure and the veins related to it yielded most of the gold in the mine. The
mineralized structure was mined as the No. 3 vein from surface to the 6105 Level, the deepest
level at the mine. Longitudinal sections reveal that stoping on the No. 3 vein was almost
continuous from surface to near the 3000 Level. Diamond drilling defined the Main Break down
to 6650 feet but there was insufficient ore to warrant development below the 6105 Level. Grade
and production both decreased below 3,000 feet. This decrease in ore with depth has been
suggested to be directly related to a decrease in the proportion of augite syenite to syenite
porphyry with depth.
Current Operations
The mine has been decommissioned.
Wright-Hargreaves Mine
Overview
The Wright-Hargreaves Mine is located to the east of Lake Shore Mine in the central portion of
the five properties. It ranks second to the Lake Shore Mine in terms of gold production and
grade, having produced 4,817,680 ounces of gold at a grade of 0.49 opt. From 1984 to 1988
Lac Minerals Ltd. produced an additional 3,616 ounces of gold from the Mine for a total of
4,821,296 ounces of gold.
History
This was the first discovery of gold in the Kirkland Lake Mining Camp, made in 1911. In 1913 a
shaft (Wright-Hargreaves No. 1) was sunk to 85 feet with 110 feet of drifting on the 75 Level.
From 1916 to 1921 the No. 1 shaft was deepened to 400 feet, No. 2 Shaft to 320 feet, No. 3
Shaft to 425 feet, and a total of 3,900 feet of lateral development took place. In 1921 a mill was
constructed and milling started at 175 tons per day.
30
The mine was developed down to the 8200 Level, the deepest development in the Kirkland
Lake Mining Camp. Diamond drilling below the 8200 Level revealed several high-grade
intersections persisting several hundred feet below the level. However, the cost to develop
these intersections at such deep levels proved to be too high, and mining was not continued.
The Main Break is the most prominent structure crossing the Wright-Hargreaves Property. This
structure has been traced as a consistently strong fault, down to the 8100 Level, and by
diamond drilling below that level. A significant amount of ore was mined from this structure but
most of the tonnage came from the North vein. The North vein branches off the Main Break to
the north just to the west of the property boundary with Lake Shore. Stoping on the North vein
was extensive to about the 4500 Level and development was to the 6600 Level. Below this level
mining was concentrated along ore-bearing fractures of the North vein zone known as the North
Heading Vein, North vein, and North D Zone. These veins are typically steeply dipping to the
south.
Another significant mineralized structure is the South vein-fault which branches off the south
side of the Kirkland Lake fault in the western portion of the mine. As with many of the other
mines in the camp there are also numerous veins which branch or splay off the main structures
and form along tension fractures in the wedge of ground between major faults.
Most of the ore mined at Wright-Hargreaves was found within syenite porphyry with veins north
of the Main Break below the 6600 Level mainly in tuff, greywacke, conglomerate and granite
porphyry located in the footwall of the main syenite porphyry plug. The Main Break is located
within syenite porphyry throughout the mine. The north veins below the 6600 Level are much
less continuous than veins in the upper levels hosted by syenite porphyry.
Current Operations
The mine has been decommissioned.
GEOLOGICAL SETTING
The Abitibi Greenstone Belt
The Mine Complex is located in the 2.75 to 2.67 billion year old Abitibi greenstone belt, which is
the world’s largest greenstone belt covering an area of roughly 85,000 square kilometres in
north-eastern Ontario and north-western Québec. The Abitibi belt is part of the larger Abitibi
Subprovince − a granite-greenstone-gneiss terrain that is located within the south-eastern
portion of the Archaean Superior Province. The Abitibi Subprovince is bound in the north by
para- and ortho-gneisses of the Opatica Subprovince, to the west by the Kapuskasing Structural
Zone, to the east by the faulting and cataclasis of the Grenville Front Tectonic Zone, to the
south-west by unconformably overlying sediments of
the Huronian Supergroup and
Keweenawan volcanics and sediments, and to the south-east by fault contact with Archaean
metasediments of the Pontiac Subprovince.
Although outcrop in the Abitibi greenstone belt is limited by a till and clay cover, locally over 100
feet thick, exposure in the Mine Complex is quite good, leading to the first discovery of gold in a
surface outcrop in 1911. Surface mapping in the Abitibi Subprovince has been supplemented by
geophysical surveys showing broad regional negative magnetic and positive gravity expressions
in areas where the surface geology consists of greenstone belts and tonalitic plutons, and
31
similar broad regional positive magnetic and negative gravity anomalies in areas of granitic
plutons.
Geological Properties Comprising the Mine Complex
To the north and south of the Mine Complex are massive and pillowed mafic volcanic rocks
which have been subdivided into the Blake River and Kinojevis Groups. To the north the
volcanic rocks of the Blake River Group are profoundly unconformably overlain by the alkalic
volcanic and sedimentary rocks known as the Timiskaming Group.
Numerous alkaline sills intrude the Timiskaming sediments. They consist of alkali-feldspar
syenite, augite syenite as well as quartz-monzonite porphyry. In general terms, these units are
known as feldspar porphyry (or syenite porphyry) as it is difficult to estimate modal percentages
of primary plagioclase and alkali feldspar in the ground mass.
A series of alkali-feldspar syenite and quartz-monzonite (feldspar porphyry) plutons with
differing phases of composition intrude the central and south limb of the synclinorium. The Otto
and Murdock Creek Stocks are examples. Another pluton, the Lebel Stock, is entirely syenitic
and may be the core intrusive of the alkaline volcanic rock assemblage.
There are a number of key structural features within the Mine Complex. The major regional
zone of accommodation is known as the ‘Larder Lake Break’ or more regionally the ‘Cadillac-
Larder Lake Break’ and has been traced for over 300 kilometres along strike. This complex
structural feature has been traced to the east through the Larder Lake-Virginiatown area (Kerr-
Addison Mine) and into Québec through Rouyn-Noranda, Cadillac, Val d’Or and terminates near
Louvicourt at the Grenville Front. The Larder Lake Break continues westward under Huronian
sediments and appears in the Matachewan area some 50 kilometres away. The Larder Lake
Break is a broad zone of intense shearing and polyphase ductile deformation which represents
the zone of structural accommodation between the proto-continent to the south and the main
mass of volcanics to the north. One of the more colourful lithofacies in the Timiskaming
assemblage of rocks and situated partly in the Larder Lake Break is a zone of extremely altered
ultramafic volcanic rocks and associated massive and bedded carbonate up to several hundred
feet thick and locally sufficiently rich in gold to constitute ore (such as the Kerr-Addison Mine).
Characteristic green fuchsite is often associated and is mined locally in the Kirkland Lake area
as a decorative stone in large panels. The Larder Lake Break generally strikes near east-west
and dips sub-vertically. Folding is polyphase but is homogeneously distributed, creating all
scales of interference patterns locally within the Timiskaming. In the Kirkland Lake area, known
plunges are mostly steep and to the west south west at about 60 degrees. The thickest part of
the syenite sill, with which most of the significant gold mineralization is associated, plunges the
same way.
MINERALIZATION
All of the properties are contiguous and very similar in nature to mineralization found on the ’04
and Main Break of the former Macassa property.
Mineralization is intimately associated with the Main Break and the '04 Break which generally
strike to the northeast and dip steeply to the south. The Main Break and various related
branches play host to most of the gold mineralization in the camp in quartz-rich zones adjacent
to the faults and in related hangingwall and footwall quartz veins. At the east end of the camp
there are an increasing number of branches and splays off the strong main branch. These faults
32
act to dissipate and lessen overall fault displacement which, based on pre-ore lithological
relationships, is of a reverse nature (south side up). The overall displacement is rotational and
has been calculated to be near 1,500 feet at the west end of the camp, and near 350 feet at the
east end. To the west end of the camp, a fault sub-parallel to the Main Break, known as the '04
Break, hosts most of the ore at the Mine Complex. At least some movement on the Main Break
post-dates the Matachewan diabase dyke swarm.
Exploration by the Company has discovered mineralized structures trending from oblique to
near perpendicular to the Main Break and the '04 Break and significant ore-grade mineralization
in the SMC located from 520 to 2,140 feet south of the workings that is parallel, but at a
shallower dip (generally 30 to 45 degrees). In the SMC, the ore is primarily pyrite-hosted,
controlled by faults, and located in various rock types, with an affinity to contacts.
A series of later cross-faults have displaced the various lithological structures and mineralization
in Kirkland Lake. The two most significant of these late faults are the Amikougami Creek Fault
and the Lake Shore Fault. Both faults strike near north-south and are sub-vertical. The vertical
displacement of these faults is not well known.
The area surrounding the Mine Complex is underlain by sedimentary and volcanic rocks of the
Archaean Timiskaming Group. These rocks are several kilometres thick and trend to the east.
They flank and are nearly parallel to the strike of the Larder Lake Break. They unconformably
overlie pre-Timiskaming, pillowed and massive, volcanic rocks belonging to the ‘Abitibi
Supergroup’ which include the Blake River Group volcanics and the predominantly tholeiitic
Kinojevis Group. Although these pre-Timiskaming volcanics are ubiquitous in the surrounding
district, they have not been encountered in any of the workings at the Mine Complex.
Intruded into the Timiskaming sedimentary and volcanic rocks is a composite syenitic sill that is
broadly centred on the town of Kirkland Lake. The long axis of the stock is roughly parallel to the
strike of the Timiskaming rocks and dips steeply to the south. The three main components of the
syenitic stock and related dykes are augite syenite, felsic syenite, and syenite porphyry. These
intrusive rocks are host to an important part of the ore at the Mine Complex.
The youngest rocks at other than mineralization, are a few Matachewan diabase dykes.
MINERAL RESERVES AND RESOURCES ESTIMATES
The reserve and resource estimates are as at December 31, 2014, and were prepared by the
Company’s Exploration Manager, Stewart Carmichael, P. Geo., and audited and verified by the
Company’s independent reserve and resource engineer, Glenn R. Clark, P. Eng., of Glenn R.
Clark & Associates Limited. Both are ‘qualified persons’ under NI 43-101. Stewart Carmichael
also verified the data disclosed, including sampling, analytical and test data underlying such
estimates and approved the following disclosure of such reserves and resources.
33
Resources are exclusive of Reserves
Notes: Columns may not add due to rounding. Mine Complex reserves include the ’04 & Main Break and the SMC. Property Wide
resources include the ’04 & Main Break, SMC, Near Surface Target, as well as other peripheral resources blocks (such as
the Lakeshore Ramp).
The Company is not aware of any metallurgical, environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation,
socio-political, marketing or other issue that may materially affect its estimate of mineral
resources and reserves.
Refer to the technical report dated May 22, 2015, as prepared by Glenn R. Clark & Associates,
for methods behind the calculation of reserves and resources, and all accompanying notes as
filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, or on the Company’s website at www.klgold.com.
CURRENT AND PROPOSED EXPLORATION AND DEVELOPMENT
Development
The Company is currently carrying out a number of developments to the Mine Complex,
including:
Underground improvements to the ventilation system.
Rehabilitation and extension of several levels for exploration.
Development of a main haulage ramp to serve the SMC and lower parts of the ’04 and
Main Break mineralization.
34
GradeGradeAu GradeGradeAu GradeGradeAu optg/t(000's)optg/t(000's)optg/t(000's)'04 & Main Break5450.4314.72365830.4816.52781,1280.4615.8514South Mine Complex3460.5117.51771,1200.6923.77731,4670.6522.3949Mine Complex8910.4615.84121,7030.6221.31,0512,5950.5619.21,463Tons (000's)MINERAL RESERVESZoneTons (000's)Tons (000's)ProvenProbableProven & ProbableGradeGradeAu GradeGradeAu GradeGradeAu optg/t(000's)optg/t(000's)optg/t(000's)'04 & Main Break10630.4013.743011480.4214.44832,2110.4114.1913South Mine Complex330.3712.71213770.6723.09171,4100.6622.6929Near Surface Target----3300.3411.71123300.3411.7112Property Wide11060.413.74473,0960.5217.81,5994,2020.4916.82,047MINERAL RESOURCESTons (000's)ZoneTons (000's)Tons (000's)MeasuredIndicatedMeasured & IndicatedGradeGradeAu optg/t(000's)04 & Main Break4850.4114.1201South Mine Complex1,3580.6522.3876Near Surface Target1000.4214.442Property Wide2,1140.5619.21,777InferredZoneTons (000's)
Extensions to the paste fill system, including drilling of back-up paste fill holes.
Development of the 5400 level in the SMC including associated infrastructure such as
haulage truck load-outs, refuge station, and battery charging bays in order to bring
additional stoping areas on line.
Development of the main haulage ramp to the 5600 level and development of this level.
Construction of an ore pad at the Mill complex.
Drilling Exploration
2015 Financial year
The Company’s 2015 exploration program focused its exploration efforts on underground drilling
and drifting, and delineation of the SMC. The total program consisted of 59,365 feet of
exploration drilling and 183,089 feet of surface drilling utilizing two to three underground drills
and three to four surface drills. An additional 119,460 feet of definition drilling was completed on
the ’04 Break target and on the near surface target.
2016 Financial year
For Fiscal 2016, the Company plans to continue its exploration efforts on underground drilling,
drifting, and delineation of the SMC. The proposed underground exploration budget is C$2.5
million which will include an estimated 89,000 feet of drilling. Underground exploration drilling of
the SMC will be carried out by two drills. The Company plans to add a third underground
exploration drill in the fourth quarter of 2016 to explore the `04 Break from the 4250 Level.
The Company also plans on continuing an extensive surface exploration program during Fiscal
2016 to include 176,000 feet of diamond drilling for further testing of the new mineralization
located south of the Main Break known as the near surface target. The proposed surface
exploration program is estimated at C$4.1 million.
During calendar 2016 the Company also intends to embark upon a regional exploration program
which will utilize a surface drill to test for new zones of mineralization further to east. This initial
budget will consist of C$1.5 million.
Due to the declining price of gold, the Company may elect to reduce longer term exploration
spending at some point during this Fiscal year. It is normal industry practice to consider
increasing longer term exploration spending during a period of higher gold prices, and to
consider reducing this spending in periods of lower prices.
Security of Samples
To ensure the validity and integrity of samples taken by the Company it re-assays pulps and
takes second cuts on rejects at a second recognized lab. As well, blank (non-mineralized) core
samples are inserted within core samples from mineralized zones to check for potential
contamination. Core is handled by one person only, after being split and bagged securely.
Quality Control and Qualified Person
The results of the Company’s exploration programs have been reviewed, verified (including
sampling, analytical and test data) and compiled by the Company’s geological staff (which
includes a ‘qualified person’, Stewart Carmichael, P.Geo., the Company’s Exploration Manager,
under NI 43-101). Mr. Carmichael has also approved the disclosure in this AIF of such
exploration results.
35
The Company has implemented a quality control program to ensure sampling and analysis of all
exploration work is conducted in accordance with the best possible practices. To ensure
consistent quality, the drill core is sawn in half with half of the core samples shipped to Swastika
Laboratories in Swastika, Ontario. The other half of the core is retained for future assay
verification. Gold analysis is conducted by fire assay using atomic absorption or gravimetric
finish. The laboratory re-assays at least 10% of all samples and additional checks may be run
on anomalous values. Blank cores are added in the midst of mineralized zones to check for
potential contamination. Pulps and rejects are routinely sent to Polymet Labs in Cobalt, Ontario
for check analysis.
MINING OPERATIONS
Mining Methods
The mining methods used are described above under ‘Description of the Company’s Business –
Production and Services’.
Metallurgical Process
Gold from the previously mined portions of the properties is quartz vein hosted. It is fine grained,
free gold, usually accompanied by 1 to 3% pyrite and sometimes associated with molybdenite
and tellurides of lead, gold, gold-silver, silver, nickel and mercury. The gold is non-refractory and
free-milling and responds well to cyanidation. Recoveries are in the range of 95 to 97%.
The ore recently discovered to the south of the properties is found in predominately sulphide
hosted gold zones. The gold recoveries are similar to the quartz vein hosted ore.
Production Forecast
The Company sold 155,709 ounces of gold in Fiscal 2015 and estimates that in Fiscal 2016,
gold production is forecast to be between 150,000 and 170,000 ounces.
Markets & Contracts for Sale
The Company markets the doré produced from its Kirkland Lake operations through direct
sales to the gold bullion industry, including Asahi Holdings Inc., Canadian Imperial Bank of
Commerce, Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Company Holdings plc (HSBC) Bank Canada
and Auramet Trading LLC.
Environmental Conditions
For a description of the environmental conditions under which the Company operates see
“Description of the Company’s Business – Environmental Protection” and ”– Reclamation Bonds
and Permits” above.
36
Taxes
The Company estimates that the annual taxes on its operations, other than income taxes and
goods and services taxes, are as follows:
Description
Provincial land taxes on mineral interests and mining rights
Regional land taxes
Municipal and miscellaneous taxes
Total
Amount
(C$)
9,603
300
939,770
949,673
On October 31, 2013, the Company received US$50 million in connection with the FNV Royalty.
On February 20, 2014, a sales tax reassessment by the CRA determined the US$50.0 million
royalty payment received in October 2013 should have been subject to HST. The Company paid
$7.3 million in sales taxes penalties and interest and has filed a Notice of Objection in respect of
this determination.
FNV have agreed to repay the $6.7 million (the sales tax amount) and to date, the Company
has received $3.5 million and expect to receive the balance in due course. The Company is
hopeful that the $450,000 in penalties and interest will be recovered in full if the Notice of
Objection which was filed on March 10, 2015, is successful.
Mine Life & Payback of Capital
The mine life is currently estimated at approximately 14 years. The payback period of capital is
currently estimated to be approximately 6 years.
DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STRUCTURE
GENERAL
The Company’s authorized capital consists of an unlimited number of Common Shares. The
Common Shares do not have a par value. All of the issued Common Shares are fully paid and
non-assessable. The Company does not currently pay a dividend and does not intend to do so
in the near term.
Each Common Share is entitled to one vote at all annual meetings of shareholders. There are
no provisions for exchange, conversion, exercise, redemption or retraction attached to the
Common Shares. All Common Shares participate equally in any dividends declared, and upon
dissolution or winding-up of, the Company. The Company also has outstanding options
exercisable for Common Shares and outstanding Debentures convertible into Common Shares.
CONSTRAINTS
There are no constraints imposed on the ownership of the Company’s securities to ensure that it
meets a required level of Canadian ownership.
37
RATINGS
None of the Company’s securities have received a rating from a rating organization.
MARKET FOR SECURITIES
The Common Shares are traded on the TSX under the symbol “KGI”, in Canada and on the
Alternative Investment Market (AIM) of the London Stock Exchange in England, under the
symbol “KGI”, however the Company has announced that effective August 1, 2015, the trading
of its securities on AIM will be cancelled (see press release dated April 15, 2015). The
Debentures also trade on the TSX under the symbols “KGI.DB” for the 6% and “KGI.DB.A”, for
the 7.5%.
TRADING PRICE AND VOLUME
During the Company’s last completed financial year, the monthly price range and volume of
trading of the Common Shares on the TSX was as follows:
Month
April, 2015
March, 2015
February, 2015
January, 2015
December, 2014
November, 2014
October, 2014
September, 2014
August, 2014
July, 2014
June, 2014
May, 2014
High
(C$)
6.25
5.98
5.23
4.95
3.97
4.10
5.74
5.80
6.19
4.15
3.73
3.24
Low
(C$)
5.36
4.58
4.14
3.22
2.79
3.24
3.26
4.56
3.84
3.49
2.51
2.60
Avg.
Volume
384,900
410,700
301,900
710,300
641,800
421,200
405,500
452,800
609,900
437,000
351,000
190,000
The Company issued $57.5 million aggregate principal amount of 6% Debentures on July 19,
2012 and $69 million aggregate principal amount of 7.5% Debentures on November 7, 2012. In
April 2015, the Company announced the NCIB for the 6% Debentures and 7.5% Debentures.
On April 9, 2015, the Company repurchased for cancellation 50,000 units of the 7.5%
Debentures.
38
The Debentures are listed on the TSX and their monthly price range and volume of trading
during the last completed financial year are as follows:
Month
High (C$)
Low (C$)
Avg. Volume
High (C$)
Low (C$)
Avg. Volume
6% Debentures
7.5% Debentures
92.65
92.63
90.50
86.27
82.00
83.01
89.86
92.33
91.19
83.00
75.00
81.50
93.00
87.25
84.50
75.00
72.00
80.00
84.25
86.02
82.00
79.00
71.50
67.50
84,619
323,091
16,789
20,476
100,143
3,950
40,909
47,810
31,900
54,818
14,905
6,619
96.25
92.63
90.50
86.27
82.00
83.01
89.86
92.33
91.19
89.00
75.00
81.50
93.00
87.25
84.50
75.00
72.00
80.00
84.25
86.02
82.00
79.00
71.50
67.50
84,619
323,091
16,789
20,476
100,143
3,950
4.,909
47,810
31,900
54,818
14,905
6,619
April, 2015
March, 2015
February, 2015
January, 2015
December, 2014
November, 2014
October, 2014
September, 2014
August, 2014
July, 2014
June, 2014
May, 2014
PRIOR SALES
As of the date of this AIF, other than 4,061,800 stock options issued pursuant to its stock option
plan, the Company does not have any classes of securities outstanding which are not listed or
quoted on a market place. Details with respect to outstanding options can be found in the
its most recent annual meeting of
Information Circular
Company’s Management
shareholders and in the notes to the Company’s annual financial statements.
for
ESCROWED SECURITIES & SECURITIES SUBJECT TO CONTRACTUAL
RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER
To the Company’s knowledge, no securities of the Company are held in escrow or are subject to
contractual restrictions on transfer.
39
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
NAME, OCCUPATION AND SECURITY HOLDING
The following are the directors and executive officers of the Company as of April 30, 2015:
Name,
Province or State & Country
and Position
COOPER, Barry R.(1)(2)(4)
Ontario, Canada
Director
KLESSIG, Pamela J. (1) (2)(3)(4)
Nevada, U.S.A.
Director
LAXTON, Heather A.(5)
Ontario, Canada
Corporate Secretary
OGILVIE, George O.(5)
Ontario, Canada
Chief Executive Officer
& Director
OLSON, Barry P.(2)(4)
Arizona, U.S.A.
Director
PARR, Jeffrey S. (1)(2)(3)
Ontario, Canada
Director
Director/Officer
Since
Principal Occupation for the Past Five Years
October 22, 2014 Retired Mining Equities Analyst
Former gold analyst with CIBC (1996-2013)
April 26, 2011
July 10, 2013
Certified Professional Geologist
Former director of Concordia Resource Corp (TSX-V)
Formerly President & Chief Executive Officer of Concordia
Resource Corp. (February 2005 to December 2010
Corporate Secretary of the Company (July 2013 to June 2015);
Chief Governance Officer & Corporate Secretary of Northern
Gold Mining Inc. (May 2011 to February 2013), Manager,
Governance & Corporate Secretary of European Goldfields
Limited (May 2008 – May 2011)
November 18,
2014
President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company;
Chairman (since January 2014) of Rambler Metals & Mining
PLC; President & Chief Executive Officer of Rambler Metals &
Mining PLC. (2008 – 2014)
October 22, 2014 Mining Executive and Director, Professional Engineer
Senior Vice President, Project Development of Goldcorp Inc.
(August 2006 – October 2013)(Retired)
October 22, 2014 Chartered Professional Accountant, CA
Chief Financial Officer, Centerra Gold Inc. (since 2008)
SPROTT, Eric S.
Ontario, Canada
Chairman of the Board & Director
STEWART, Christopher A.(5)
Ontario, Canada
Vice President, Operations
THOMSON, John S.(5)
Perthshire, United Kingdom
Executive Vice President, Chief
Financial Officer & Director(1)(2)(3)(4)
WHITTAKER, Dawn P.(1)(3)
Ontario, Canada
Director
February 20, 2015 Chairman of the Board, Sprott Inc.
Formerly Chief Investment Officer, Sprott Inc. and Senior
Portfolio Manager, Sprott Asset Management (until January
20, 2015)(Retired)
June 5, 2014
Vice President Operations of the Company
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Liberty Mines
Inc. (May 2011 – June 2013); Manager, Shaft Projects of BHP
Billiton (April 2010 – May 2011), Professional Engineer
May 19, 2006
Chartered Accountant
Executive Vice-President (since May 2006) & Chief Financial
Officer (since July 2006) of the Company.
January 16, 2012
Lawyer, Senior Partner, Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP
(since 2002); formerly a Partner of McCarthy Tetrault LLP (1994
– 2000)
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
Members of the Audit Committee of which Jeffrey Parr is the Chair. See Schedules ‘A’ and ‘B’ for particulars of
the Audit Committee’s charter and information related to the Audit Committee.
Members of the Compensation Committee of which Pamela J. Klessig is Chair.
Members of the Nominating and Governance Committee of which Dawn Whittaker is Chair.
Members of the Health, Safety and Environmental Committee of which Barry Olson is Chair.
40
(5)
Members of the Disclosure Committee of which George Ogilvie is Chair.
All directors hold office until the next annual meeting of shareholders or until they resign. Upon
resignation, a successor may be appointed by the Board of Directors. Directors may be
removed by a special resolution of shareholders whereupon a successor may be elected by
shareholders or appointed by the Board of Directors.
Based on the disclosure available on the System for Electronic Disclosure by Insiders (SEDI) as
of the date of this AIF, the directors and executive officers of the Company as a group
beneficially own, directly or indirectly, or have control or direction over an aggregate of
7,730,820 Common Shares representing approximately 10% of the issued and outstanding
Common Shares.
CEASE TRADE ORDERS
None of the directors or executive officers of the Company are, or within the previous 10 years
have been, a director, chief executive officer or chief financial officer of any issuer that was the
subject for a period of more than 30 consecutive days of a cease trade or similar order or an
order that denied the issuer access to any exemptions under securities legislation:
(i)
(ii)
while the director or executive officer was a director, chief executive officer or chief
financial officer of that issuer,
after the director or executive officer ceased to be a director, chief executive officer or
chief financial officer of the issuer but which resulted from an event while the director or
executive officer was a director, chief executive officer or chief financial officer of that
issuer, except as follows:
BANKRUPTCIES
None of the directors or executive officers of the Company or, to its knowledge, shareholders
holding sufficient Common Shares to materially affect the control of the Company:
(i)
(ii)
are, or within the previous 10 years have been, a director or executive officer of any
issuer that, while acting in such capacity or within one year of ceasing to so act, became
bankrupt, made a proposal under any legislation relating to bankruptcy or insolvency or
was subject to or instituted any proceedings, arrangement or compromise with creditors
or had a receiver, receiver manager or trustee appointed to hold its assets, or
has, within the previous 10 years, become bankrupt, made a proposal under any
legislation relating to bankruptcy or insolvency or become subject to or instituted any
proceedings, arrangement or compromise with creditors or had a receiver, receiver
manager or trustee appointed to hold their assets.
PENALTIES AND SANCTIONS
None of the directors or executive officers of the Company or, to the Company’s knowledge,
shareholders holding sufficient Common Shares to materially affect the control of the Company
have been subject to:
41
(i)
any penalties or sanctions proposed by a court relating to securities legislation or by a
securities regulatory authority or has entered into a settlement agreement with a
securities regulatory authority, or
(ii)
any other penalties or sanctions imposed by a court or regulatory body that would likely
be considered important to a reasonable investor in making an investment decision.
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
Certain officers and directors of the Company are officers and directors of, or are associated
with, other natural resource companies that acquire interests in mining properties. Such
associations may give rise to conflicts of interest from time to time. The directors are required by
law to act honestly and in good faith with a view to the best interest of the Company and its
shareholders and to disclose any personal interest which they may have in any material
transaction which is proposed to be entered into with the Company and to abstain from voting
as a director for the approval of any such transaction.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Company is not a party to, nor is any of its property the subject of, any material legal
proceedings and no such proceedings are known to the Company to be contemplated.
REGULATORY ACTIONS
The Company has not:
(i)
(ii)
had any penalties or sanctions imposed against it by a court relating to securities
legislation or by a securities regulatory authority during the last financial year, or
had any other penalties or sanctions imposed by a court or regulatory body against it
that would likely be considered important to a reasonable investor in making an
investment decision, or
(iii)
entered into any settlement agreements with a court relating to securities legislation or
with a securities regulatory authority during the last financial year.
INTEREST OF MANAGEMENT AND OTHERS IN MATERIAL TRANSACTIONS
No director or executive officer of the Company, no person or company that is the beneficial
owner of, or who exercises control or direction over, directly or indirectly, more than 10% of any
class or series of the Company’s outstanding voting securities and no associate or affiliate of
any of such persons or companies has any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction
within the three most recently completed financial years or during the current financial year that
has materially affected or is reasonably expected to materially affect the Company.
42
TRANSFER AGENTS AND REGISTRAR
The Company’s registrar is and transfer agent is Computershare Trust Company of Canada of
Toronto, Ontario.
MATERIAL CONTRACTS
The following material contracts of the Company were entered into within the most recently
completed financial year, or before the most recently completed financial year but are still in
effect as at the date of the AIF:
1. Agreement of Purchase and Sale dated March 27, 2012 between the Company and
Osisko (formerly Queenston) pursuant to which the Company agreed to purchase from
Osisko various properties jointly owned by them for $60 million and, after 1.3 million
ounces of gold have been produced from such properties, a royalty of $15 per ounce of
gold for the next 1 million ounces produced and $20 per ounce thereafter.
2. Indenture dated as of July 19, 2012 between the Company and Computershare Trust
Company of Canada (the “Trustee”) providing for the creation and issuance of the 6%
Debentures as supplemented by a Supplemental Indenture made as of November 7,
2012 between the Company and the Trustee providing for the creation and issuance of
the 7.5% Debentures; and
3. Royalty Agreement dated October 31, 2013 between the Company and Franco-Nevada
Company, pursuant to which the Company received US$50 million for a 2.5% net
smelter return royalty on production from the Company’s properties including the
Macassa Gold Mine.
INTERESTS OF EXPERTS
NAMES OF EXPERTS
The following persons, firms and companies are named as having prepared or certified a report,
valuation statement or opinion described or included in a filing, or referred to in a filing, made
under National Instrument 51-102 Continuous Disclosure Obligations by the Company during, or
relating to, its most recently completed financial year and whose profession or business gives
authority to the report, valuation statement or opinion made by the person, firm or company.
Name
Description
KPMG LLP
Chartered Accountants
Independent Auditor; Audit Report dated July 8, 2015 with respect to the financial
statements as at April 30, 2015 and April 30, 2014 and for the years ended April
30, 2015 and April 30, 2014
Glenn R. Clark, P. Eng.
Glenn R. Clark & Associates
(independent from the
Company)
Reserve & Resource Report Author; Report dated May 22, 2015 and titled
Review of Resources and Reserves of Macassa Mine, Kirkland Lake, Ontario at
January 1, 2015.
Stewart Carmichael, P.Geo
“Qualified Person” as defined in NI 43-101. Reviewed, verified and compiled the
43
Manager of Exploration
Company’s exploration programs including sampling, analytical and test data.
Chris Stewart, P.Eng
VP, Operations
“Qualified Person” as defined in NI 43-101. Reviewed, verified and oversees
production and operations of the mine and milling facility.
INTERESTS OF EXPERTS
To the Company’s knowledge, none of the other experts named in the foregoing section had, at
the time they prepared or certified such report, valuation statement or opinion, received after
such time or will receive any registered or beneficial interest, directly or indirectly, in any
securities or other property of the Company or any of its associates or affiliates.
KPMG LLP has advised the Company that it is independent of the Company within the meaning
of the relevant rules and related interpretations prescribed by the relevant professional bodies in
Canada and any applicable legislation or regulation.
None of such experts nor a director, officer or employee of such experts is or is expected to be
elected, appointed or employed as a director, officer or employee of the Company or of any
associate or affiliate of the Company.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Additional information, including directors’ and officers’ remuneration and indebtedness,
principal holders of the Company’s securities and securities authorized for issuance under
equity compensation plans, is contained in the Company’s Management Information Circular for
its most recent annual meeting of shareholders.
Additional financial information is provided in the Company’s financial statements and
Management Discussion & Analysis (MD&A) for its most recently completed financial year, both
of which are filed on SEDAR. See Schedules ‘A’ and ‘B’ for particulars of the Audit Committee’s
charter, its members and related matters.
Other additional
www.sedar.com.
information relating
to
the Company may be
found on SEDAR at
44
SCHEDULE ‘A’
AUDIT COMMITTEE INFORMATION
COMPOSITION OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE
The Audit Committee consists of three directors. The following table sets out their names and
whether they are ‘independent’ and ‘financially literate’.
Name of Member
Jeffrey Parr (Chair)
Barry Cooper
Pamela J. Klessig
Dawn Whittaker
Independent (1)
Financially Literate (2)
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
(1)
(2)
To be considered to be independent, a member of the Committee must not have any direct or indirect
‘material relationship’ with the Company. A material relationship is a relationship which could, in the
view of the Board of Directors of the Company, reasonably interfere with the exercise of a member’s
independent judgement.
To be considered financially literate, a member of the Committee must have the ability to read and
understand a set of financial statements that present a breadth and level of complexity of accounting
issues that are generally comparable to the breadth and complexity of the issues that can reasonably
be expected to be raised by the Company’s financial statements.
RELEVANT EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
The education and experience of each audit committee member that is relevant to the
performance of his/her responsibilities as an audit committee member and, in particular, any
education or experience that would provide the member with:
(a)
(b)
(c)
an understanding of the accounting principles used by the Company to prepare its
financial statements;
the ability to assess the general application of such accounting principles in connection
with the accounting for estimates, accruals and reserves;
experience preparing, auditing, analyzing or evaluating financial statements that present
a breadth and level of complexity of accounting issues that are generally comparable to
the breadth and complexity of issues that can reasonably be expected to be raised by
the Company’s financial statements, or experience actively supervising one or more
persons engaged in such activities; and
(d)
an understanding of internal controls and procedures for financial reporting, is as follows:
45
Name of Member
Education
Experience
Jeffrey Parr
(Chair)
M.B.A., McMaster University
(1982)
B.A., University of Western
Ontario (1979)
CPA,CA (1984)
Barry Cooper
Pamela Klessig
Dawn Whittaker
M.B.A., University of
Saskatchewan (1990)
BSc. Earth Science, University
of Waterloo
(1975)
B.A. Geology (1978),
Western State College
Gunnison, Colorado
B.A., Queen’s University
(1983), LL.B., Queen’s
University (1986), Called to
the Bar 1988 (Ontario)
and 1992 (British Columbia)
Chief Financial Officer of Centerra Gold Inc. (2008 –
present); Vice President, Finance of Centerra Gold Inc.
(2006 – 2008); Chief Financial Officer and Director,
Shared Services of Hatch Acres Inc. (1997 – 2006).
Member of the Canadian Institute of Chartered
Professional Accountants, Financial Executives
International and the Institute of Chartered Professional
Accountants of Ontario. Former member of the Board of
Directors of the Mining Association of Canada.
Director, Executive Director, Managing Director of CIBC
Mining Equities Research (1996 – 2013); Geologist,
Project Geologist, District Manager of Cameco (1979 –
1996)
Certified Professional Geologist; Director and formerly
President and CEO, Director, Member of Audit
Committee of Concordia Resource Corp (TSX-V) during
which time she served for three years on the Audit
Committee; Former stock broker and Financial Advisor
for four years with AG Edwards.
Lawyer, Senior Partner, Norton Rose Fulbright Canada
LLP (since 2002); member of the Canadian Cancer
Society, Ontario Division Nominating and Governance
Committee (2010-2013); member of the Canadian
Investor Relations Institute's (CIRI) Issues Committee
(2008 to 2010); member of the Ontario Securities
Commission’s Continuous Disclosure Advisory
Committee (2006 – 2008); Partner, McCarthy Tetrault
LLP (1994 – 2000); Law and Business Instructor,
University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies
(1986-1992)
RELIANCE ON CERTAIN EXEMPTIONS
Since the commencement of the Company’s most recently completed financial year, the
Company has not relied on any of the exemptions set out in National Instrument 52-110 Audit
Committees.
AUDIT COMMITTEE OVERSIGHT
Since the commencement of the Company’s most recently completed financial year, there has
not been a recommendation of the Audit Committee to nominate or compensate an external
auditor that was not adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors.
PRE-APPROVAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The Audit Committee reviews and pre-approves all audit-related and any non-audit related
services. One or more independent members of the Committee may give such pre-approval to
the auditor to perform non-audit services if notice of such pre-approval is subsequently
presented to the Audit Committee’s next scheduled meeting for ratification and is ratified by the
Committee.
46
EXTERNAL AUDITOR SERVICE FEES (BY CATEGORY)
The following table discloses the fees billed to the Company by its external auditor during the
last two financial years:
Financial Year
Ending
April 30, 2015
April 30, 2014
Audit
Fees (1)
$250,000
$ 155,000
Audit Related
Fees (2)
$0
Tax
Fees (3)
$49,970
$0
All Other
Fees (4)
0
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
The aggregate fees billed for audit services.
The aggregate fees billed for assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance
of the audit or review of the Company’s financial statements and which are not disclosed in the ‘Audit Fees’
column. The services provided were in respect of the Company’s internal controls.
The aggregate fees billed for tax compliance, tax advice, and tax planning services.
The aggregate fees billed for professional services other than those listed in the other three columns.
SCHEDULE ‘B’
AUDIT COMMITTEE CHARTER
Kirkland Lake Gold Inc. (the “Company”) shall fulfill its corporate governance obligations
by complying with the applicable requirements set out in the Company’s constating
documents and established under laws and regulations of general application. The Audit
Committee (the “Committee”) of the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company is a
key component to the fulfillment of the applicable obligations. Accordingly, this Charter
describes the constitution, authority, mandate and responsibilities of the Committee.
CONSTITUTION & AUTHORITY
The Committee shall consist of not less three directors appointed by the Board. Each
member of the Committee must be ‘independent’ and ‘financially literate’ as required by
National Instrument 52-110 Audit Committees, applicable securities legislation and related
requirements.
Given that the auditor is appointed by, and is accountable to, the Company’s shareholders,
the Board is elected by the Company’s shareholders to oversee and guide the Company’s
business and the Committee has been appointed as representatives of the Board, the auditor
shall report directly to the Committee.
MANDATE
The Company’s management
financial
statements and other financial information and for presenting the information contained in
the financial statements fairly and in accordance with International Financial Reporting
Standards (“IFRS”). Management is also responsible for establishing internal controls and
procedures and for maintaining the appropriate accounting and financial reporting principles
the Company’s
is responsible
for preparing
47
and policies designed to assure compliance with accounting standards and all applicable
laws and regulations.
The auditor’s responsibility is to audit the Company’s financial statements and provide its
opinion, based on its audit conducted in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards, whether the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the
financial position, results of operations and cash flows of the Company in accordance with
IFRS.
The role of the Committee is principally one of oversight. Accordingly, the Committee
shall:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
make recommendations to the Board regarding the appointment, retention and
level of compensation of the Company’s external auditor (the “auditor”);
approve, in advance, all non-audit services provided to the Company by the auditor
and the related compensation;
evaluate the work of the auditor and confirm its independence;
provide a means of communication between the Board, management and the
auditor on matters relating to financial reporting;
provide the necessary oversight over:
(a)
(b)
(c)
the integrity, adequacy and timeliness of the Company’s financial reporting
and disclosure practices, including the preparation of financial statements;
the processes for identifying the Company’s principal financial risks and the
control systems to monitor those risks;
the Company’s compliance with legal and regulatory requirements related
to financial reporting; and
perform any other activities consistent with
the Company’s
constating documents and laws of general application as the Committee or Board
deems necessary or desirable.
its mandate,
RESPONSIBILITIES
In performing its oversight responsibilities, the Committee shall:
1.
2.
3.
4.
review and assess, on an on-going basis, the adequacy of its mandate and
recommend any proposed changes to the Board for approval;
monitor, on an on-going basis, the independence of the auditor by reviewing all
relationships between the auditor and the Company and all non-audit work
performed for the Company by the auditor and the Committee or a member
thereof shall pre- approve all non-audit services to be provided to the Company or
a subsidiary by the auditor;
review and approve the Company’s hiring policies regarding partners, employees
and former partners and employees of the auditor and any former auditor;
review with the auditor and management the annual plan for the audit of the
financial statements before commencement of the work;
48
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
review with the auditor the results of the auditor’s work and any problems or
difficulties that were encountered, including any disagreements between the
Company’s management and
assess management’s responses thereto;
financial reporting, and
the auditor regarding
review with management and the auditor the annual audited financial statements
and ‘Management Discussion and Analysis’ reports, before filing or distribution,
including matters requiring review pursuant to laws and regulations of general
application;
review with management (or ensure that the Board does so) the quarterly
unaudited financial statements and ‘Management Discussion and Analysis’ reports,
before filing or distribution, including matters required to be reviewed under laws
and regulations of general application;
review with management the annual budget, and any required interim adjustments,
including the assumptions (for reasonableness, accuracy and timeliness), for
recommendation to the Board;
review with management, as appropriate, news releases and any other form of
disclosure containing earnings and other material financial information;
that adequate procedures are
satisfy itself
the
Company’s public disclosure of financial information extracted or derived from its
financial statements, other than the public disclosure referred to in paragraphs 5 and
6, and must periodically assess the adequacy of those procedures;
the review of
in place
for
review with management and the auditor the adequacy and effectiveness of the
Company’s accounting and financial controls and the adequacy and timeliness of
its financial reporting processes;
review with management and the auditor the quality and appropriateness of the
Company’s
financial reporting and accounting standards and principles and
significant changes to those standards or principles or in their application, including
key accounting decisions affecting the financial statements, alternatives thereto
and the rationale for decisions made;
review with management and
significant related party transactions and potential conflicts of interest;
the auditor
the
treatment and disclosure of
review with management the risk of frauds within the operations or financial
reporting and consider the actions taken by management and the systems
implemented to address these risks;
15.
ensure that adequate procedures are in place for the receipt, retention and treatment
of:
•
•
complaints regarding accounting, financial disclosure, internal controls or
auditing matters; and
confidential, anonymous submission by employees regarding
questionable accounting, auditing and financial reporting and disclosure
matters;
49
16.
17.
18.
examine the process for identifying, categorizing, evaluating and mitigating the
Company’s principal risks and the potential impact or consequences they might
have, individually or compounded, on the sustainability of the Company, as well as
measures available to ensure the latter, and report to the Board, members of which
shall use their reasonable efforts to ensure the adequacy of the oversight of
management and that management duly carries out its required functions;
review the appointment of the Company’s Chief Financial Officer and any other key
financial executives involved in the financial reporting process; and
conduct or authorize investigations into any matter that the Committee believes is
within the scope of its responsibilities. The Committee has the authority to retain, at
the Company’s expense, independent counsel, accountants or other advisors to
assist it in the conduct of any investigation.
50