Marlborodog, 

the reason for being optimistic is multifold:

- a worldclassdeposit including metals widely used for sustainability and electric transportation

- Noront has a focus, and it is entirely on the N-S road. Finally....

- government has made the road announcement, Marten Falls is eager (based on their own actions)

- consolidation in the ROF is nearly coming to an end, very much in favour of NOT

- there is no need for additional deposits, if so, nice to have, not a must

- markets have rebounded after financial crisis, true value of deposit is up again

- permitting seems to be under control, unnecessarily delay no longer an issue

Even when it is 10 years down the road, today's status is a strong investment case. Mind you, it can be difficult to set aside what has been going on, the hard facts tell a different story today. SP will ultimately follow. I currently view the already passed10 years to be an advantage, no more excuses nor promises required.