"If Cliffs starts filling the system with Chromite from the FWR properties and has the tonnage to top-up demand for 30+ years, why would they be in need of NOT's Chromite?"

Because if Noront is serious about becoming a mining entity there would be a synergy for Noront to work with Cliffs. Development of infastructure, transportation systems, native relations, developing a labour force and working with gov't agencies would all be enhanced, move quicker and be less expensive.

If Noront wants to hang onto their Chromite they would be viewed as a competitor by Cliffs thereby making it more difficult for co-operative development of the ROF.