MAC Applauds Throne Speech Commitment to Responsible Resource Development

OTTAWA, March 3 /CNW Telbec/ - The Mining Association of Canada (MAC) is encouraged with the Government's commitment to develop a clearer process for project approval and the commitment to both Northern development and Aboriginal Canadians, addressed in today's throne speech.

The government's commitment to "to support responsible development of Canada's energy and mineral resources," by untangling "the daunting maze of regulations that needlessly complicates project approvals, replacing it with simpler, clearer processes that offer improved environmental protection and greater certainty to industry," is a positive signal that Canada is serious about responsible resource development.

"This commitment to clarity is a positive signal to industry that the government recognizes that Canada's mining industry is integral to this country's recovery and long term prosperity," stated Gordon Peeling, President and CEO of the MAC. "Duplication leads to waste of government resources and at stake are thousands of high-paying jobs, billions of dollars in private sector investment and billions of dollars in government revenues."

Likewise, the government's recognition of being a "northern country" and the signal that it will "reform the northern regulatory regime to ensure that the region's resource potential can be developed where commercially viable while ensuring a better process for protecting our environment and by continuing to map our northern resources and waters," also address the key potential of economic prosperity that the north can provide.

The government's commitment to Aboriginal Canadians by focusing on education and support of student success, which will provide greater hope and opportunity, acknowledge the significant role Aboriginal Canadians and communities will play in the economic future of Canada and particularly in the mining industry.

"These issues in today's Speech from the Throne will enhance the contribution that the mining industry can make to all Canadians by improving the investment climate, bringing efficiency and clarity to our regulatory processes and strengthening our skilled workforce," stated Gordon Peeling.

Based in Ottawa, The Mining Association of Canada is the national organization for the Canadian mining industry. Its members are engaged in mineral exploration, mining, smelting, refining and semi-fabrication.

For further information: Maggie Papoulias, Mining Association of Canada, [phone] ext 325