The British Columbia mining association welcomes news that the provincial government plans to accelerate a number of projects.
The province announced its intention to accelerate 18 critical mineral and energy projects worth around 20 billion dollars on Monday.
“They are retained in a sort of administrative or regulatory or government process,” said Prime Minister David Eby.
“We can speed up this, put these shovels in the ground. And with particular attention to more rural and distant communities. »»
Tim McEwan, main vice-president of business affairs at the Mining Association of British Colombia (MABC) praised this decision.
“The British Columbia mining association hosts the commitment of the British Columbia Government to accelerate four mining projects (Eskay Creek Gold + Silver, Highland Valley Copper Expansion, Red Chris Expansion and Mount Milligan Copper and Gold)” He told Global News.
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“The priority for the mining industry and mergers from British Columbia is to modernize and accelerate permits and authorizations for major mine projects.”
MCEWAN added that British Columbia has 17 critical mineral projects in books, many of which are ready to enter into permit processes in the year.
“If these projects are successfully developed, they will offer significant advantages, including family jobs for British Columbia workers, the stability of resource communities and, above all, the possibility of accelerating economic reconciliation with the first nations. “
But the fast of mines is a concern for some.
“It seems that there is pressure to deregulate,” said Mining Watch in Canada, Jamie Kneen.
“We have already seen it in Ontario where they have retreated many closing requirements and some of the most critical environmental parts. And in a way, I really hope that British Columbia will not continue this same path. »»
The province affirms that mining projects are progressing in consultation with First Nations and are subject to technical exams, consultation and decisions under the environmental assessment law.
The industry contributes to around $ 18 billion in economic activity, around 30% of exports from the province and creates more than 35,000 jobs.
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