The provincial government continues to act on the recommendations of the BC Mining Jobs Task Force, recently releasing the ‘What We Heard’ report from public consultation on proposed changes to strengthen the Mines Act.

“Our government is spending $20 million to act on the recommendations of the BC Mining Jobs Task Force and to speed up permitting and improve safety in the mining sector,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources. “As the newly appointed minister, I look forward to building on the work we have done so far to strengthen the mining sector and create good jobs for people throughout the province.”

The Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources has published a What We Heard report as a follow-up to the public comment period in fall 2019 on proposed changes to strengthen the Mines Act.

The report’s key findings indicate:

* the environment and human health are top priorities for British Columbians;

* respondents want mines held accountable to follow the rules, with appropriate enforcement action;

* there needs to be clear separation between permitting and health, safety and enforcement for decision makers;

* support for the establishment of an independent oversight unit; and

* permitting processes need to be more efficient and result in more timely decisions.

B.C.’s mining industry had an estimated value of production of nearly $10 billion in 2018.

In 2018-19, the B.C. mining industry paid over $400 million in mineral taxes to the province.

Each direct job at a mine or smelter in B.C. supports at least two jobs in supply or services.

Lead image: Teck’s Fording Coal Mine near Elkford. e-KNOW file photo

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