Premier Announces Mining Industry Advisory Committee

Building on the positive outcomes of today's Labrador Resource Investment Roundtable, the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, announced the creation of the Premier's Advisory Committee on Mining.

"We are currently experiencing an incredible momentum in our resource sector throughout the province and no where is that more true than in our mining industry," said Premier Dunderdale. "We are fortunate in Newfoundland and Labrador to have world-class industry leaders operating mining companies right here in Labrador. These companies are major players in developing our mineral resources and have important ideas on how to maximize our industry, promote investments and overcome obstacles. Through this new advisory committee, I will be able to have regular updates and discussions with these industry leaders to ensure we continue to unlock Labrador's mining sector potential."

The advisory committee will include representatives present at today's meeting and others from the industry.

"Once again Premier Dunderdale's leadership and dedication to enhancing the prosperity of our province is evident with the creation of an advisory committee on mining," said the Honourable Tom Marshall, Minister of Natural Resources. "Who better to learn from and partner with to further enhance our growing mining sector than those industry leaders who are in the trenches, working incredibly hard to increase investments in our province. I am proud of the work we have done with these companies to date and excited for future enhancements to our mining industry."

The Premier's Advisory Committee will advise and inform Premier Dunderdale on important matters relating to the mining sector in Newfoundland and Labrador. The committee will also highlight opportunities that exist in the sector, advise the Provincial Government on decisions related to the mining sector and offer innovative solutions to overcome potential challenges to developing the industry further.

"Labrador's resource sector has great potential and with the establishment of an advisory council we are illustrating our understanding and respect of resource development in this region," said the Honourable Nick McGrath, Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs. "I thank the Premier for arranging the roundtable and appointing this valuable advisory committee."

"As I prepare to lead a provincial trade mission to China next week, it is vitally important to hear from our industry partners about the opportunities for investment that exist in the mining sector," added Premier Dunderdale. "This is an exciting time to do business in Newfoundland and Labrador, our economy is strong, our resource industry is buoyant and investment potential is limitless. I look forward to building on the good work achieved during the roundtable with the advisory committee."

- 30 -

Media contacts:

2013 06 14                          4:00 p.m.