Natural Resources
June 4, 2014

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Natural Resources:

Geological Survey of Newfoundland and Labrador Celebrates 150 Years

Mr. Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House today to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Geological Survey of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Geological Survey, a division of the Department of Natural Resources, has made a mark on history by mapping the province’s diverse geology, explaining its geological evolution, and interpreting the origin and nature of its mineral resources.

Under the leadership of Alexander Murray, the Geological Survey was inaugurated in 1864. Murray and his assistant James Howley were truly remarkable pioneering geologists and their impressive collection of work formed the basis for the first geological map of this province published in 1907.

After Howley’s death in 1909, the Geological Survey was temporarily disbanded, but was revived in 1926 under Herbert Baker. In the early 1930s, led by geologist Alfred Snelgrove, the work of the Geological Survey was incorporated within government.

In the 1970s, increased funding for mineral development activities resulted in the growth of a modern Geological Survey. With a current research and support staff of 55 individuals, the Geological Survey provides a sophisticated geoscience database that the province needs to drive resource industries for the next decade and beyond.

Work conducted by the Geological Survey has a long record of encouraging resource exploration and discovery. The Geological Survey delivers a variety of web-based research tools, provides a wealth of information on its website including the recently updated online Geoscience Atlas, conducts research in the field through programs such as the annual geological mapping program, and also assists in land use planning and hazards assessment.

Mr. Speaker, our government recognizes the importance of furthering Newfoundland and Labrador’s resource potential. The team at the Geological Survey is to be commended for its tremendous efforts to support our resource industries.

The Provincial Government significantly added to the budget of the Geological Survey through a permanent increase of $1 million in 2007, and maintained funding of $5.4 million in 2014. We will continue to support long-term responsible resource development for the benefit of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Thank you.

2014 06 04      2:15 p.m.