I assume he is Quebecois, at at a cursory glance this looks to...

I assume he is Quebecois, at at a cursory glance this looks to be a good, strategic appointment.

Rightly or wrongly, SYA appears to be perceived by at least some of the locals as a kind of 'foreign opportunist' exploiting their local resources, and as such are 'out of touch' or simply ignorant to their values and ideals. This kind of sentiment is quite universal, and not really so surprising imo. SYA look to have been unable to alleviate these issues, in the approach they have taken to date as well, so I feel that some of the responsibility lies with them also.

So he will obviously work very directly to address these misunderstandings and misgivings.

But this is also a clear statement of intent by the company in regards to the project - and its reassuring for shareholders. They fully intend to bring this mine to fruition.