The Suspension of Nickel Mining in Eramet's New Caledonia Adds to the Strain on Business Operations" The French mining group Eramet's subsidiary SLN has suspended its nickel mining operations in the north of New Caledonia, adding further strain to the already loss-making business operations. The shutdown of SLN's nickel mine is part of the troubled nickel industry in New Caledonia, and the French government is trying to save the industry through a proposed rescue plan.