The Crown prosecuted Vale Canada Ltd. and Keith Birnie following workplace deaths.
Vale Canada Ltd. pleaded guilty to three counts under occupational health and safety legislation.
The court imposed a monetary fine of $350,000 per count for a total of $1,050,000, payable within 60 days, with applicable surcharges.
The Crown withdrew remaining charges against Vale Canada Ltd. and all charges against Keith Birnie due to insufficient evidence of reasonable prospect of conviction and public interest considerations.
The sentencing emphasized workplace safety standards, deterrence, and accountability while acknowledging the tragic loss of life.
