Executive Council
Natural Resources
March 3, 2015

Encouraging Exploration for a Sustainable Economy

Premier Attends World’s Largest Mining Convention and Trade Show

The Honourable Paul Davis, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, focused on the long-term outlook of the provincial mining and mineral exploration sectors when he addressed approximately 300 people at an event in Toronto last night. The event, hosted by the Provincial Government and Mining Industry NL, was part of the annual Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada’s (PDAC) international convention and trade show.

“The provincial mining and minerals industry will continue to generate important economic and employment opportunities for residents and communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. In the Fraser Institute of Canada’s recently released International Mining Survey, Newfoundland and Labrador ranked in the Top Ten of the most attractive jurisdictions worldwide for mineral exploration investment. PDAC is the ideal venue to showcase our province’s significant resource potential and to encourage investment into the province that will help contribute to long-term industry sustainability.”
- The Honourable Paul Davis, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

At PDAC, Premier Davis was joined by the Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Natural Resources. They met with Vale and Tata Steel Minerals Canada to discuss progress on their mining projects and Teck Resources to discuss their closure plans for the Duck Pond mine.

“‎Despite the recent slowdown of the mining industry globally, we continue to have much success in projects such as Tata Steel’s high-grade iron project in Labrador’s northern Menihek region which represents a $1 billion investment in the area, the Iron Ore Company of Canada's demonstration of its long-term focus with its proposed Wabush 3 project, and mines such as Anaconda Mining and Rambler Metals which are securing economic and employment benefits in rural communities. As well, junior companies and prospectors are to be commended for their mineral exploration work which represents the future of the industry.”
- The Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Natural Resources

Newfoundland and Labrador has a strong representation at PDAC this year. The provincial delegation includes officials from the Provincial Government, Mining Industry NL, mineral exploration companies with projects in the province, prospectors, and mining service and supply firms.

“Our association is pleased to attend the mineral industry’s premier annual global conference and trade show. With a strong contingent of prospectors and member companies showcasing a diverse range of exciting exploration properties for option and development, Newfoundland and Labrador is well-positioned to attract the investment needed to grow our industry.”
- Ed Moriarity, Executive Director, Mining Industry NL

QUICK FACTS

• Premier Davis focused on the outlook of the provincial mining and mineral exploration sectors when he addressed about 300 people at an event as part of the annual Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada’s (PDAC) international convention and trade show.
• Featured at PDAC is the Newfoundland and Labrador Pavilion which is a partnership initiative between the Provincial Government and industry. The pavillion is located adjacent to the Atlantic Canada Pavilion at the PDAC trade show.
• The Provincial Government and industry are also providing funding for prospectors to promote their local properties. Participation in the PDAC trade show offers an opportunity to promote the mineral potential and diverse geology, while providing information and support to local exploration companies and prospectors.
• Approximately 20 companies with exploration projects in Newfoundland and Labrador are part of the trade show and the Investors Exchange. Junior exploration companies are also participating in the annual Canada-China Mining Investment Forum. This is held in conjunction with the Government of Canada and China’s Ministry of Land and Resources.
• Established in 1932, PDAC represents the interests of the Canadian mineral exploration and development industry. The annual convention and trade show is considered the world leading event for companies and organizations connected with mineral exploration.

- 30 -

Media contact:

2015 03 03                              10:40 a.m.