I wish to advise the house that this week, May 7 - May 13, is Mining Week in Canada.

Earlier today it was my pleasure to join the Newfoundland and Labrador Chamber of Mineral Resources in officially declaring Mining Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The theme for this week�s celebration is: "Mining Makes it Happen."

Mining Week is designed primarily to recognize the important contribution that the mineral sector makes to this province�s economy and the economy of Canada as a whole. It also provides an opportunity to recognize all of the people who work and earn their living in the mining industry.

As honourable members are aware, government has been committed to the well being of our mineral industry. Programs such as the Mineral Exploration Assistance Program have encouraged new exploration and growth in our mineral sector. This program has also provided financial assistance to numerous prospectors who would otherwise not have the opportunity to commence their exploration projects.

Government fully understands that exploration is an essential component in the development of mineral resources and will continue to support and encourage new exploration programs. It has been proven that exploration leads to the discovery of new resources and, in turn, results in the generation of new wealth through new investment, employment and business opportunities.

This incentive program has been warmly received and commended by the mineral exploration industry.

Our mineral industry continues to play a vital part in our province�s economic well-being. This industry directly employs approximately 2,700 people. Mineral shipments in 2000 were worth approximately $1 billion to this province�s economy.

As our mineral sector continues to grow, we will witness new developments and discoveries that will further strengthen this important industry. Projects such as Hammerdown, Duck Pond and Voisey�s Bay are just a few examples of the exciting mineral potential that this province has to offer.

As exploration continues to grow, government anticipates new discoveries that will ensure new developments that will bring numerous benefits to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.

It is essential for government to support mining. We must provide fair and equitable policies for the investment community and ensure that the people of the province receive the maximum benefit from their resources.

In honour of Mining Week, the Department of Mines and Energy has set up a public display of Newfoundland and Labrador minerals in the main lobby of the Natural Resources Building. I would invite all honourable members to visit this display during the week.

I encourage everyone to celebrate Mining Week and to recognize the contribution of the mining industry to the province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

2001 05 07                                                    2:00 p.m.