Speeding up permit approvals on provincial mining minister’s mind

Changes are coming to Ontario’s Mining Act.

Cutting red tape to improve the industry’s competitiveness still remains top of mind for Energy, Northern Development and Mines Minister Greg Rickford, who hosted the 41st annual Meet the Miners Day at Queen’s Park, Oct. 29.

The mix-and-mingle event is an acknowledgement of the role that the $10-billion industry plays in the province’s economy in providing more than 76,000 Ontarians with direct and indirect jobs.

It’s also an information exchange between industry reps, MPPs, and government bureaucrats to touch on topics that drive economic development and encourage innovation in areas such as green tech solutions.

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Rickford also took the opportunity to huddle with his panel of industry experts on the government’s Mining Working Group.

Created earlier this year, the group is composed of leaders from the mining and exploration side, prospectors, and representatives from Indigenous business organizations.

“I am encouraged by our discussions so far and look forward to our continued collaboration,” said Rickford, who acknowledged the contribution of Chris Hodgson and his team from the Ontario Mining Association for their input in finding ways to cut regulatory red tape. That includes making legislative changes to boost Ontario’s profile as an attractive place to invest.

“Through the proposed Better For People, Smarter For Business Act, 2019, which our government announced yesterday, we are proposing changes to the Mining Act that will help speed up approvals, reduce confusion and create more business certainty." 

Rickford said his government remains solidly behind creating jobs by supporting the opening of three mines and the expansion of five others in Northern Ontario.

“Together, with the mining industry, we are sending a strong signal to the world that Ontario is open for business and open for jobs.”