Orbit Garant Supports Québec Mining Industry Associations' Opposition to Government Proposal to Increase the Royalties Paid by Mining Companies

VAL-D'OR, QC, March 15, 2013 /CNW/ - Orbit Garant Drilling Inc. (TSX: OGD) ("Orbit Garant" or the "Company") today announced its support for the position of the Québec Mining Industry Association and Québec Mineral Exploration Association with respect to the Government of Québec's intention to increase the royalties paid by mining companies that extract minerals in Québec.

"The Government of Québec is holding a forum today with various Québec mining industry stakeholders to discuss increasing the royalties mining companies pay to the Province on the minerals extracted here. As a leading Québec-based mineral drilling services company, and one of the largest employers in Val-d'Or, we want to voice our support for our industry associations' position on this important issue," said Eric Alexandre, President and CEO of Orbit Garant Drilling. "The mining industry is a key part of Québec's economy, providing jobs for thousands of people both directly and indirectly, as well as economic development in regions throughout the province. We are not opposed to the payment of royalties, but we believe they should be set at levels that do not discourage mineral resource development in Québec."

The Québec Mining Industry Association and the Québec Mineral Exploration Association are currently circulating an online petition stating their position and requesting support. Orbit Garant encourages industry stakeholders to view the petition at: www.change.org/fr/p%C3%A9titions/j-appuie-les-mines.

About Orbit Garant
Headquartered in Val-d'Or, Québec, Orbit Garant is one of the largest Canadian-based mineral drilling companies, providing both underground and surface drilling services in Canada and internationally through its 224 drills and more than 800 employees. Orbit Garant provides services to major, intermediate and junior mining companies, through each stage of mining exploration, development and production. The Company also provides geotechnical drilling services to mining or mineral exploration companies, engineering and environmental consultant firms, and government agencies. For more information please visit the Company's website at www.orbitgarant.com.

SOURCE: Orbit Garant Drilling Inc.

Eric Alexandre
Chief Executive Officer
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