 |
|
“This council is all about building relationships between government, First Nations and industry to ensure that the mining and minerals sector has every opportunity to grow responsibly,” said Hogg. “The council identified some key challenges and opportunities for communities, industry, First Nations and the Province to address in ensuring that we move forward in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.”
The council will help identify conditions necessary for the long-term success of mineral exploration and mining in an evolving environment. The council will also provide input and make recommendations for a revised mining sector strategy which will build on the successes of the 2005 BC Mining Plan.
“The
First Nations Leadership Council has highlighted the need to implement the
FN-BC New Relationship in the mining sector in order to recognise the
importance of building ties between B.C.’s First Nations and the mining industry,”
said Grand Chief Edward John, member of the First Nations Summit Political
Executive. “First Nations will also be meeting this fall to develop a plan for
engagement with government and industry based on the recognition of Aboriginal
rights and title as defined by the courts.”
Members of the council have been chosen to represent the different facets of the mining and minerals sector. They are made up of a broad cross section representing the industry and include the First Nations Leadership Council, Aggregate Producers Association of BC, Coal Association of Canada, Mining Association of BC, Association for Mineral Exploration BC and other industry leaders.
“After several years of high exploration and
strong commodity prices in B.C., and as the Gateway to the Pacific, we are
poised to be a major supplier of commodities and expertise to the emerging
markets in the Pacific Rim, benefiting all British Columbians,” said Pierre
Gratton, president and CEO of the Mining Association of British Columbia.
“By bringing together key stakeholders – government, First Nations and industry
– to take a hard look at common issues and interests, we can ensure we seize
this opportunity and secure B.C.’s place as a major mining jurisdiction.”
The council will develop a work plan which reflects government, First Nations and industry priorities for the fiscal year. As well, a newsletter will be produced to report on progress made by the council and it will be posted on the ministry website.
-30-
|
contact: |
Public Affairs Officer Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources 250 952-0628 250 213-6934 (cell) |
|
|
|
||
|
For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca. |
||
