A collection of 46 rock, mineral and fossil samples from different regions of the province has been compiled into a unique teaching tool that is being incorporated into the Grade 7 school curriculum. A Newfoundland and Labrador Rock and Mineral Kit has now been distributed to every school in the province to complement existing program requirements in the area of earth sciences.

"These kits show the diversity of the minerals found in this province and demonstrate the importance of mining and geology to the provincial economy," said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Natural Resources. "Through the use of these kits, students will learn about the properties of minerals mined here, the products that are made from them and the opportunities that exist within this exciting and growing sector."

The development of the kit was a joint initiative between the Department of Natural Resources' Geological Survey division, the provincial branch of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) and the Department of Education's Program Development division. The Program Development division is responsible for curriculum development and the distribution of educational resources for each school district.

"In today's science classrooms, students actively learn about the fundamental principles of science with a focus on applying this knowledge to the world around them," said the Honourable Darin King, Minister of Education. "New science courses encourage students to learn through hands-on experience that build valuable skills. The great thing about these made-in-Newfoundland and Labrador resources is that it provides students with a deeper understanding of the world outside their doors."

"The CIM is pleased to have supported this educational initiative that will help Newfoundland and Labrador students garner a greater awareness of the importance of mining and minerals to our daily lives," said Bob Kelly, President of the CIM's Newfoundland branch. "We look forward to further collaboration with government to celebrate our world-class geology and mining industry."

The samples were provided by mining companies in Newfoundland and Labrador or collected by staff and geologists within the Mines Branch of the Department of Natural Resources. A guidebook for the Rock and Mineral Kit will assist teachers and students in learning about these minerals.

Newfoundland and Labrador's mining industry is a significant contributor to the provincial economy, providing direct and indirect employment for over 4,000 men and women in many communities across the province. Despite the global recession and its serious impact on commodity prices, the gross value of mineral shipments for 2009 was $2 billion, the fourth highest value on record for the province. The Provincial Government is committed to the long-term growth and development of the mining industry and made an additional investment of $620,000 in Budget 2009: Building on Our Strong Foundation for exploration and investment.

- 30 -

Media contacts: