NLIS 1 
September 11, 2001
(Mines and Energy)

 


Minister comments on Mines Ministers' Conference

Mines and Energy Minister Lloyd Matthews said that the 58th annual Mines Ministers' Conference held in Quebec City on Monday, September 10, was constructive and informative.

A unique feature of the Mines Ministers' Conference is the inclusion of a public session where industry stakeholders make presentations to ministers on significant and challenging issues affecting the mining business.

"The annual Mines Ministers' Conference is an excellent opportunity for provincial, territorial and federal government representatives to receive input from industry and other parties and to work together to develop policies that will sustain and grow the mining industry in Canada," said Mr. Matthews.

Minister Matthews noted that Canada has traditionally been viewed as a world leader in the mining industry, especially as it pertains to advances in technology. However, in recent years, the industry has been in decline. During the conference, groups such as the Mining Association of Canada (MAC) and the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) outlined several issues and challenges to the continued growth of the industry. These include:

1. Onerous tax burdens on mining companies that operate in Canada.

2. Exploration continues to decline, resulting in less opportunities for the development of new      mining activities in Canada.

3. Increased global competition is causing less investment in Canada.

4. Industry and government must continue to work together to encourage full participation by 
aboriginal communities.

"We agreed that the mining industry is a very important part of the Canadian economy and governments must continue to work towards the removal of impediments that prevent investment that is required to ensure growth continues in this key industry," said Mr. Matthews. "I was pleased to have the opportunity to restate our position that the taxation of our non-renewable resources should be treated outside of the broader consideration when discussing taxation policy and clawback issues."

Media contact: Tara Laing, Communications, (709) 687-5055.

2001 09 11                                        10:25 a.m. 


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