Estimates Briefing Book 2016-17

Part One: 2016-17 Published Plan

Ministry Overview

Mandate

As the lead ministry for the North, the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines works to make Northern Ontario and the provincial minerals sector strong, healthy and prosperous.

Ministry Contribution to Priority Outcomes

As the regional ministry for Northern Ontario and the ministry responsible for the provincial minerals sector, the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines (MNDM) strives to make Northern Ontario and the provincial minerals sector strong, healthy and prosperous.  By providing a northern perspective, the Ministry supports provincial initiatives in the North and addresses unique regional circumstances.
The Ministry leads and coordinates government programs aimed at growing the Northern Ontario economy, building strong northern communities and creating sustainable job opportunities in the North.  Through a network of offices and strategic program and policy development, the Ministry ensures northerners have access to government programs and services and a voice in government decisions affecting the North.  The Ministry is also leading a coordinated and collaborative approach to the ongoing implementation of the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario, 2011, (Growth Plan) a long-term strategy to support sustainable economic and population growth in the North.

Chaired by the Minister of Northern Development and Mines, the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) provides funding programs designed to encourage partnerships with northerners to create jobs and strengthen the northern economy by:

  • Supporting northern economic infrastructure development;
  • Enhancing economic development capacity;
  • Stimulating commercialization, innovation and productivity;
  • Encouraging new business development and expansion; and
  • Attracting and retaining talent.

The Ministry invests in the North’s transportation and public infrastructure through the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC) and the Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC).  Transformation of the ONTC is currently underway with a focus on long-term sustainability of its transportation services and infrastructure.  MNDM also provides strategic planning for northern infrastructure, working with other ministries, municipalities and Aboriginal communities to expand and maintain the northern provincial highways system, roads in unincorporated areas, resource access roads and winter roads.

As the sectoral ministry for the provincial minerals sector, the Ministry helps build a strong, safe and sustainable Ontario by promoting mineral sector exploration and investment guided by Ontario’s Mineral Development Strategy.

The Ministry serves as the provincial authority in the delivery of baseline geoscience information for all regions of the province; encourages and facilitates Aboriginal participation in Ontario’s economy; administers Ontario’s Mining Act and diamond royalty; and ensures safe, environmentally sound mineral development and rehabilitation of mining lands.

MNDM’s Ring of Fire Secretariat works and consults with Aboriginal peoples, northerners and the mining industry to encourage responsible and sustainable economic development in the Ring of Fire region. Located 540 kilometers northeast of Thunder Bay, the Ring of Fire is one of the most significant mineral regions in the province.  The area has mineral potential known to be worth $60 billion and includes the largest deposit of chromite – a key ingredient of stainless steel – ever discovered in North America.  The Ring of Fire also holds the potential for significant production of nickel, copper and platinum.

Ministry Outcomes

The Ministry’s priority outcomes are:

  • The northern economy and the provincial mineral sector are diversified, sustainable, and globally competitive;
  • Northern communities implement economic development initiatives, attract investment and provide citizens with needed infrastructure and services;
  • Communities and economic sectors in Northern Ontario have access to transportation infrastructure and services that support economic growth;
  • Aboriginal communities are a vibrant part of the provincial economy and mineral sector, and are partners in the creation of a sustainable future for Ontario;
  • Ontario’s mineral resources are developed in an environmentally responsible manner and public access to Crown mineral rights is provided;
  • People and communities in Ontario benefit from the informed use of Ontario’s land and Earth resources; and
  • First Nations, Ontario and Canada realize benefits from Ring of Fire developments.

Progress on Achieving Outcomes

Priority Outcome: Transportation Infrastructure

Communities and economic sectors in Northern Ontario have access to transportation infrastructure and services that support economic growth.

Investing in the expansion and overall rehabilitation of Northern Ontario’s transportation infrastructure is a cornerstone of the Growth Plan.  In support of this commitment, the Ministry and the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) cooperate in the planning and delivery of the Northern Highways Program and track the condition of highways and bridges. Over the past five years the targets for highways in good condition have been met or exceeded. There has been steady improvement in meeting the targets for the conditions of bridges (see Figures 1 and 2).

A bar graph illustrates the percentage of northern highways in good condition by fiscal year: Ministry target: 67% 2009-10: 53%  2010-11: 62% 2011-12: 67% 2012-13: 69% 2013-14: 73% 2014-15: 70% Note: 2015-16 data will be available after May 2016

A bar graph illustrates the percentage of northern bridges in good condition by fiscal year: Ministry target: 85% 2009-10: 60%  2010-11: 61% 2011-12: 64% 2012-13: 73% 2013-14: 75% 2014-15: 79% Note: 2015-16 data will be available after May 2016

Priority Outcome: Diversification, Sustainability and Competitiveness

The northern economy and the provincial mineral sector are diversified, sustainable, and globally competitive.

Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC)

Ministry support through the programs of the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation for business expansion and new business investment in 2015-16 is expected to achieve similar outcomes as achieved historically in the numbers of jobs created and the amount of investment leveraged (see Figures 3 and 4). Additional new program measures are currently  being developed. Tracking will begin in 2016-17.

A bar graph illustrates the NOHFC project investment dollars leveraged from other partners by fiscal year: Ministry target: 3 to 1 2009-10: 3.1 to 1 2010-11: 3.7 to 1 2011-12: 3.15 to 1 2012-13: 5.05 to 1 2013-14: 3.46 to 1 2014-15: 2.9 to 1 Note: 2015-16

A bar graph illustrates the number of full-time jobs being created or retained by NOHFC by fiscal year: Ministry target: 2,500 (as of 2012-13) 2009-10: 2,413 2010-11: 3,378 2011-12: 3,059 2012-13: 3,455 2013-14: 3,771 2014-15: 2,930

Northern Industrial Electricity Rate Program (NIER)

In 2015-16 the Province committed to an ongoing Northern Industrial Electricity Rate Program, with continued investment of up to $120 million per year. To date, the NIER program has disbursed more than $650 million. A new program measure in 2016-17 will track the total number of jobs sustained across all program participants.

Priority Outcome: Provincial Mineral Development

Ontario’s mineral resources are developed in an environmentally responsible manner and public access to Crown mineral rights is provided.

Mineral sector investment and marketing initiatives track their success through Natural Resources Canada reports on Canadian exploration activity and new investment in exploration and mining.  In Canada’s ranking for new investment in exploration and mining, Ontario has placed within the top four over the past five years (see figure 5).  A newly developed measure tracks the percentage of Canadian exploration activity occurring in Ontario (see figure 6).

A table depicts the ranking of Ontario's mining activities by fiscal year. From left to right, top to bottom Year - Ranking 2015-16 - Data pending 2014-15 - First place 2013-14 - Third place 2012-13 - Second place 2011-12 - First place 2010-11 - Third pla

Rankings are based on Natural Resource Canada data as of April 7, 2016.

Rankings are based on spending intentions and preliminary data which may change over time. Data does not include value of mineral production.

A bar chart illustrates the percentage of Canadian exploration activity occurring in Ontario by fiscal year. Target: 25% 2011-12 - 25% 2012-13 - 25% 2013-14 - 24% 2014-15 - 23% 2015-16 - 23%

Ministry Programs and Activities

The Ministry of Northern Development and Mines carries out its mandate under three activities: Ministry Administration, Northern Economic Development, and Mines and Minerals.

Ministry Administration

Ministry Administration provides executive direction and strategic business and resource planning services to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of ministry programs.  It supports ministry operations through advice and services in the areas of human resources, business planning, accounting and administration, and professional support services such as legal and audit services.  It provides core strategic support in the areas of corporate policy and communications.

Northern Economic Development

The Ministry leads and coordinates government programs aimed at modernizing infrastructure and transportation networks, driving economic growth, and supporting a dynamic business climate in Northern Ontario.

Under the banner of Northern Economic Development, the Ministry delivers the following seven programs:

  1. Northern and Regional Policy Interests
  2. Northern Transportation Networks
  3. Business Development and Support
  4. ONTC Commercial Services
  5. Industrial Energy Support
  6. Industrial Support – Special Assistance
  7. Community Support.

Program Descriptions

Northern and Regional Policy Interests

The Northern and Regional Policy Interests program undertakes research and collects and analyzes regional information to support the development and implementation of strategic policies and programs which support Northern Ontario’s economy; and strengthen and diversify Northern Ontario’s communities and businesses.

Northern Transportation Networks

The Northern Transportation Networks program plans and delivers an efficient core transportation network to provide northerners with modes of transportation infrastructure that support economic development.

The Ministry supports strategic investments in infrastructure through programs such as the Northern Highways Program, Local Roads Boards, Winter Roads, the OSTC, and the Ontario Northland Polar Bear Express service.  The Ministry continues to work with partner ministries to increase public and private investment in the North’s transportation infrastructure, and secure partnerships with other stakeholders.

Business Development and Support

The Business Development and Support program promotes and delivers programs, services and funding to assist business start-ups, expansions and innovation efforts.  A network of six integrated area teams (Sudbury, Thunder Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, Timmins, North Bay and Kenora), with offices in 26 communities across the North, serve as the focal point for private sector clients and northern stakeholders for the delivery of programs and services in the existing and emerging priority economic sectors identified in the Growth Plan.

In addition, the Ministry promotes Northern Ontario by assisting local companies to grow and expand their business globally through collaborative international marketing, sales support services and lead generation.

The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) also provides investments in Business Development and Support projects across the North (see Agencies section for more information).

ONTC Commercial Services

The ONTC Commercial Services program supports the cost-competitive delivery of ONTC commercial activities in rail freight, motor coach and refurbishment in northeastern Ontario (see Agencies section for more information).

Industrial Energy Support

The Industrial Energy Support program supports the development of industrial energy plans through the administration of the Northern Industrial Electricity Rate (NIER) Program.  With ongoing funding of up to $120 million a year, the NIER program is targeted toward major industrial users to reduce energy costs.

Industrial Support – Special Assistance

The Industrial Support – Special Assistance program responds to companies that need special assistance and may not be eligible for the government’s existing business support programs to help them continue to make vital contributions to job creation and economic prosperity in the North.

Community Support

The Community Support program promotes and delivers programs, services and funding to build community infrastructure and assist communities in undertaking economic development projects.  It also provides funding and advice to support community services in unincorporated areas.

Area team staff work with northern municipalities and Aboriginal communities to help to identify, facilitate and develop economic development opportunities, projects and initiatives.

The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) also provides investments in Community Support projects across the North (see Agencies section below).

Growth Plan for Northern Ontario (Growth Plan)

MNDM is leading a coordinated and collaborative approach to the ongoing implementation of the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario, 2011, a 25-year plan to guide decision-making and strategic investment planning in Northern Ontario.

The Growth Plan for Northern Ontario, 2011, was developed under the Places to Grow Act, 2005, and is the product of extensive engagement with northerners.

The plan guides initiatives to build an economy that is resilient and sustainable and leverages the competitive strengths and human potential of northerners by providing them with more education, training and career opportunities. The Growth Plan aims to strengthen the economy of the North by focusing on six key principles:

  • Creating a highly productive region, with a diverse, globally competitive economy that offers a range of career opportunities for all residents;
  • Developing a highly educated and skilled workforce to support an evolving knowledge-based economy and excellence in the trades;
  • Partnering with Aboriginal peoples to increase educational and employment opportunities;
  • Delivering a complete network of transportation, energy, communications, social and learning infrastructure to support strong, vibrant communities;
  • Demonstrating leadership in sustainable growth and environmental management; and
  • Establishing innovative partnerships to maximize resources and ensure this Plan achieves its ambitious vision and is fiscally sustainable.

Implementation of the Growth Plan is a collaborative effort of various partners and participants including governments, industry and business, municipalities, Aboriginal communities and organizations and other public and private sector institutions.

In 2016-17, progress will continue with a number of key initiatives under the Growth Plan including: 

  • The Northern Ontario Multimodal Transportation Strategy, led by the Ministry of Transportation;
  • Development of the Agriculture, Aquaculture and Food Processing Sector Strategy for Northern Ontario, led by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs;
  • Development of a five year progress update on the Growth Plan to highlight achievements to date;
  • Coordinated collaborative approach to implement the Growth Plan by supporting partner ministry mandates and the strategic alignment with Growth Plan policies;
  • The continued work of the Northern Policy Institute; and
  • The alignment of the new NOHFC programs with the Growth Plan priorities.

The Northern Policy Institute, an independent not-for-profit organization, provides a northern perspective, grounded in academic research, to serve as a guide for public policy development to help inform decisions of governments, municipalities, communities, First Nations, businesses and industries. 

Agencies

The above programs include the activities of three operational agencies for which MNDM is responsible:

1. Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC)
2. Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC)
3. Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC).

Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation

The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) is positioned to continue its role as a key driver of Northern Ontario’s significant growth potential.  Through its programs, the NOHFC works with northern communities, entrepreneurs, not-for-profit, companies and business organizations to address northern priorities while continuing to support vital infrastructure and community development projects that enhance quality of life and stimulate economic activity.

The NOHFC offers five programs that foster strategic and focused investment to support Northern Ontario’s economic prosperity and sustainability:

  1. Strategic Economic Infrastructure Program
  2. Community Capacity Building Program
  3. Northern Innovation Program
  4. Northern Business Opportunity Program
  5. Northern Internship Program.

NOHFC programs focus on the growth of existing and emerging priority economic sectors identified in the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario, 2011 and the government’s key priority of helping communities prosper.

Ontario Northland Transportation Commission and Owen Sound Transportation Company

The Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC) and Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC) are agencies of the province, reporting to the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines.  Each receives annual operating and capital subsidies that support the delivery of transportation services in north-eastern Ontario.

The government is moving forward to ensure sustainable employment, continued economic growth, and a strong transportation network in northeastern Ontario by transforming the ONTC. The ONTC operates the motor coach, Polar Bear Express, freight rail and refurbishment services in northeastern Ontario.  In 2016-17, transformation efforts will continue to focus on ensuring the long-term sustainability of the ONTC so that it can provide vital transportation services and infrastructure that support economic growth in northeastern Ontario.

The OSTC continues to provide safe, reliable and efficient marine transportation services, delivered in northeastern Ontario.  Vehicle and passenger services are provided by the M.S. Chi-Cheemaun ferry between the Bruce Peninsula and Manitoulin Island, and by the Niska 1 ferry between Moosonee and Moose Factory.  The OSTC also manages the Pelee Island ferry seasonally (with air service in the winter) by contract with the Ministry of Transportation.

Mines and Minerals

The Ministry supports a strong and sustainable minerals development industry by promoting investment and exploration, by providing information to global clients on Ontario’s wealth of mineral resources, and by the fair, effective and efficient administration of Ontario’s Mining Act. 

A renewed Mineral Development Strategy provides a blueprint for the industry’s growth over the next 10 years.  The strategy has four key priorities to ensure the mining sector is:

  1. Competitive and innovative
  2. Safe and environmentally responsible
  3. Efficiently and effectively regulated
  4. Positioned to ensure growth and prosperity for future generations.

Six programs support the delivery of the Ministry’s mineral sector mandate:

  1. Regulatory Administration of the Mining Act
  2. Geoscience Information
  3. Mineral Development Investment and Opportunity
  4. Aboriginal Affairs
  5. Ring of Fire Aboriginal Relations
  6. Ring of Fire Infrastructure Development.
Program Descriptions
Regulatory Administration of the Mining Act

The Regulatory Administration of the Mining Act program administers the Mining Act through regulatory tools that modernize and sustain mineral exploration and mining in socially and environmentally responsible ways.

As part of this mandate, the Ministry is continuing to implement changes to modernize the Mining Act to ensure that mineral exploration and development in Ontario is undertaken in a manner that promotes a balanced approach that benefits all Ontarians, while modernizing the way mining companies stake and explore their claims to be more respectful of private landowners and Aboriginal communities.  Phase 3 of the Mining Act Modernization initiative will transform and modernize how mineral tenure is administered in Ontario by implementing an integrated, client-driven electronic system that enables clients to acquire and manage Crown lands for mineral development.

The Ministry also invests in the rehabilitation of abandoned mine sites on Crown-held lands to ensure public safety, improve the environment, make the lands available for productive use and reduce the Crown’s liability on these sites.

Geoscience Information

The Geoscience Information program collects and disseminates geoscience information to attract and guide mineral sector investment and inform government resource development and management.

Geoscience services support economic development through: source water protection; mineral, energy, and groundwater-resource related development opportunities; land use planning; and safeguarding public health and safety related to geological hazards.

Mineral Development Investment and Opportunity

The Mineral Development Investment and Opportunity program researches, develops and promotes strategic investment opportunities to influence investment-related policies and decisions that support Ontario’s mineral competitiveness.

This program ensures Ontario receives a fair share of the value of mineral resources extracted from the province, identifies strategic investment opportunities, and influences policy issues that support Ontario’s mineral competitiveness. It also champions the growth and development of a vibrant diamond mining, cutting and polishing industry in Canada.

Aboriginal Affairs

The Aboriginal Affairs program provides information and facilitates effective stakeholder relationships and partnerships to strengthen Aboriginal participation in Ontario’s economy including mineral sector opportunities.

This program encourages and enhances the capacity for Aboriginal communities to participate in, and take advantage of mineral resources and other economic development opportunities, while ensuring the Ministry meets its constitutional and legal obligations. It develops and sustains productive and effective relationships among government, Aboriginal communities, industry, municipalities and other partners in support of greater economic development opportunities that benefit Aboriginal peoples.

Ring of Fire (ROF) Aboriginal Relations

The Ring of Fire Aboriginal Relations program develops and implements a collaborative approach with Aboriginal communities and the private sector to better enable participation and benefits from Ring of Fire mining and related development.

In March 2014, the Province reached a landmark framework agreement with Matawa-member First Nations to move forward with a negotiation process on a community-based regional approach to development in the Ring of Fire. The agreement ensures First Nations and Ontario can work together to advance Ring of Fire opportunities, including regional long-term environmental monitoring and enhanced participation in environmental processes, resource revenue sharing, economic supports and regional and community infrastructure.

Ring of Fire Infrastructure Development

The Ring of Fire Infrastructure Development Program facilitates development and collaborative approaches with industry, First Nations and economic development organizations to ensure infrastructure development in the Ring of Fire achieves social and economic objectives.

In August 2014, the province announced the establishment of the ROF Infrastructure Development Corporation to bring First Nations, industry and the provincial and federal governments together to create partnerships and facilitate investment decisions in strategic transportation infrastructure in the Ring of Fire area. The not-for-profit corporation has an interim board of four Ontario public servants.  As participation in the corporation evolves, the Board of Directors will be broadened to include membership from First Nations and industry partners. In its mature state, the corporation will be in a position to advise on crucial infrastructure investment decisions, including how to best utilize Ontario’s $1 billion dollar commitment to Ring of Fire infrastructure.

The Ministry will also continue its efforts to ensure effective and efficient processes for coordination and delivery of environmental assessments, permitting and approvals across provincial ministries and with the federal government. Work will continue with regional and local economic development organizations to identify service delivery and business development opportunities and ensure that benefits from investments in Ontario’s resources are maximized through value added activity.

A table is used to illustrate the Ministry's planned expenditures for 2016-17. From left to right, top to bottom Expenditure Type - Amount Operating - $390.0 million Capital - $400.7 million Total - $790.7 million

A pie chart is presented, outlining the Ministry's planned expenditures by division and percent of overall Ministry budget. Agency Consolidation - $25.3 million - 3% Mines and Minerals - $115.1 million - 14% Ministry Administration - $13.7 million - 2% No

2016-17 Ministry Planned Expenditures by Division

Highlights of 2015-16 Achievements

Some of the key Ministry achievements from 2015-16 include:

  • In December, the Ontario government announced the renewal of the Mineral Development Strategy, which meets a Growth Plan commitment.
  • To support new initiatives and existing ministry programs, the government, through the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines (MNDM), projects to have invested more than $740 million in the North and in Ontario’s mineral sectors in 2015-16.
  • The Ministry signed or made progress on the implementation on a number of bi-lateral agreements with several First Nation communities including Neskantaga, Marten Falls and Webequie. The commitments and implementation of these agreements facilitated federal engagement with key Ring of Fire communities, including partnering on social supports as part of their community based pilot projects.
  • The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation committed approximately $142 million toward 801 projects that resulted in 2,663 jobs to be created or retained.
  • Approximately $560 million was committed for northern highways, including $173 million for expansion work and $387 million for rehabilitation.
  • Ontario announced its intention to make the Northern Industrial Electricity Rate (NIER) program an ongoing program for qualifying large northern industrial consumers. The government committed to a NIER program beyond March 2016, with continued investment of up to $120 million per year.
  • In 2015-16, staff assisted 560 public and private sector clients (including 59 Aboriginal clients) to identify and develop economic development initiatives and business development opportunities across the North.
  • The province’s Northern Communities Investment Readiness (NCIR) program supported 19 community projects in 2015-16, eight of which were for Aboriginal communities.
  • The OSTC achieved a 10.8 per cent increase in passenger traffic in 2015 as a result of its successful marketing strategy and rebranding campaign, which included an exterior update of the Chi-Cheemaun with native art motifs. The Chi-Cheemaun, operated by the OSTC, underwent $3.2 million worth of renovations.

Please refer to Appendix: 2015-16 Annual Report, for further details on the Ministry’s 2015-16 achievements.

Ministry Organizational Chart

An organizational chart is used to illustrate the Ministry’s hierarchical structure. From left to right, top to bottom Minister of Northern Development and Mines - Parliamentary Assistant Deputy Minister Communications Branch - Legal Services Branch (prov

Statutes Administered

Mining Act

This Act provides for the regulation of mineral exploration and development activities in Ontario. The purpose of this Act is to encourage prospecting, staking and exploration for the development of mineral resources in a manner consistent with the recognition and affirmation of existing Aboriginal and treaty rights in section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, including the duty to consult, and to minimize the impact of these activities on public health and safety and the environment.

Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry Act

This Act establishes the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines. It recognizes the different conditions and special needs existing in Northern Ontario and the desire of northern residents to have a stronger voice in government. The Act defines the Ministry’s function to coordinate government activities and initiate policies and programs for the government in Northern Ontario and on behalf of the minerals industry. At this time, the Act retains “Forestry” in its title even though responsibilities for the forestry sector were transferred to the Ministry of Natural Resources in 2011. Order in Council 1571-2011 identifies the Minister of Northern Development and Mines as presiding over the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines.

Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Act

This Act establishes a corporation to promote economic development and diversification in Northern Ontario, through the use of funds provided for that purpose. The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation operates as an Operational Service Agency of the Province.

Northern Services Boards Act

This Act, passed in 1999, replaces the former Local Services Boards Act. The Act provides choice and flexibility to northern residents in the establishment of service delivery mechanisms that recognize the unique circumstances of Northern Ontario and allow increased efficiency and accountability in area-wide service delivery.

The first part of the Act allows inhabitants of territories without municipal organization to establish legally-constituted local services boards to act on their behalf, and to raise funds for certain basic community services to improve the quality of life. The second part of the Act provides for the establishment of area service boards to consolidate delivery of six core services: child care, social assistance, public health, social housing, land ambulance service and homes for the aged as well as a variety of optional services. An area services board would have taxation authority in the board area to recover service costs.

Ontario Northland Transportation Commission Act

This Act established the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC) for the purposes of providing transportation services to Northern Ontario. The Ontario Northland Transportation Commission operates as an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Province.

Professional Geoscientists Act

This Act established the Association of Professional Geoscientists of Ontario as the governing body for geoscientists, and empowers the association to establish standards of professional practice for persons who wish to be recognized as professional geoscientists.

Agencies, Boards, and Commissions (ABCs)

Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation

The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation is a statutory corporation established under the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Act.  It was established in 1988 to advise and make recommendations on any matter relating to the growth and diversification of the economy of Northern Ontario, and to promote and stimulate economic initiatives. The Corporation is a funding organization that provides loans and grants to stabilize, diversify and foster the economic growth of Northern Ontario.

The Corporation is an Operational Service Agency of the Province, and its directors are appointed by Minister’s prerogative Order in Council.  The Minister is the Chair of the Board of Directors.

Ontario Northland Transportation Commission

The Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC) is a statutory corporation established under the Temiskaming and Northern Ontario Railway Act, 1902 (Ontario) and continued under the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission Act.

In April 2014, the province announced that it will continue to operate the motor coach, Polar Bear Express, rail freight, and refurbishment services of the ONTC as a government-owned transportation company.
The ONTC is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Province, and its directors are appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council Premier’s prerogative Order in Council.

Owen Sound Transportation Company, Limited

The Owen Sound Transportation Company, Limited (OSTC) is a share capital corporation incorporated pursuant to the Business Corporations Act (Ontario). The OSTC delivers marine (vehicle and passenger) services from Tobermory to South Baymouth aboard the M.S. Chi-Cheemaun, and between Moosonee and Moose Factory Island using the M.V. Niska 1. The OSTC also operates the Pelee Island ferry seasonally (with air service in the winter) by contract with the Ministry of Transportation.

The OSTC is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Province. Its directors are appointed by Minister’s appointment letter. The Minister is the sole shareholder of the OSTC.

Detailed Financial Information

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table 2: Combined Operating and Capital Summary by Vote

A detailed financial statement is presented, highlighting estimated Operating Expenses, Operating Assets, Capital Expenses and Capital Assets amounts for 2016-17, Changes in Estimates from 2016 to 2018, Percentage Change in Estimates from 2016 to 2018, Es

Transfer Payments to Agencies

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
AgencyFunding Type2016-17 Estimates
(presented in $millions)
2015-16 Estimates (presented in $millions)2015-16 Interim Actuals* (presented in $millions)2014-15 Actuals (presented in $millions)
NOHFCOperating60.00060.00060.00060.000
NOHFCCapital40.00040.00040.00040.000
ONTCOperating34.99254.21149.91132.178
ONTCCapital47.10345.44145.44150.964
OSTCOperating2.3632.5722.5722.810
OSTCCapital5.6805.4103.5600.674

*Note: reflects amounts presented in the 2016 Budget 

Appendix: Ministry of Northern Development and Mines: 2015-16 Annual Report

2015-16 Achievements

To support new initiatives and existing ministry programs, the Government, through the
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines (MNDM), projects to have invested more than $740 million in the North and in Ontario’s mineral sectors in 2015-16.

Ring of Fire – Infrastructure Development

In 2015-16, the Ministry’s Ring of Fire Secretariat continued to coordinate Ontario’s approach to the complex phases of development in the region. The potential economic opportunity from mining activity in the Ring of Fire (ROF) remains significant, and the region has the potential to support mining operations for several decades. The Ministry continued to explore road development options to facilitate progress, including strategic infrastructure development in the ROF region.

Ontario is also committed to improving socio-economic supports and outcomes in Matawa-member First Nations so that these communities are prepared to effectively participate in future economic development opportunities in the ROF. To that end, Ontario has provided a wide range of supports to Aboriginal communities in the ROF region since 2011 to address their socio-economic needs so that they can fully benefit from the economic opportunities associated with ROF development.

These investments include more than $78.3 million allocated directly to communities and tribal councils – including $23 million directly from MNDM – to support community readiness and capacity building activities related to proposed ROF development opportunities. The investments also support community-based skills training, baseline environmental monitoring, negotiations support, and organizational supports.

Notable results from Ontario’s investments have shown much success, including:

  • More than 2,000 First Nation clients who have participated in skills training;
  • 201 graduates from Aboriginal Skills Advancement Program (ASAP);
  • Expansion to full Ontario Works (financial and employment assistance) in eight of nine Matawa-member communities;
  • Youth mental health and addictions supports in place for Matawa-member communities;
  • G1 drivers’ licence testing pilot successfully completed in Webequie First Nation, with the program also in progress in Eabametoong First Nation;
  • Community Communications Liaison Officer positions in place in all Matawa-member communities to coordinate community participation including providing feedback on plans, permits, and other government authorizations;
  • Successful construction of a Remote Learning Centre in Neskantaga First Nation; and
  • Environmental baseline monitoring.

In 2015, the Ministry announced a joint investment with the federal government of more than $785,000 to work together and complete a regional community service corridor study with four of the Matawa-member First Nations. Work continues in 2016 to complete this study.
The Ring of Fire Infrastructure Development Corporation also continues its work on studies that will help inform infrastructure investments, including a technical review of industrial transportation infrastructure options.

The Corporation’s mandate is to encourage the exploration and development of mineral deposits in the ROF region through strategic transportation infrastructure into the region through its work of engaging and consulting with key partners.

That work continues through existing processes to support infrastructure planning and implementation with key partners, including through the Regional Framework Agreement process with the Matawa-member First Nations.

The Corporation continues to pursue completion of five technical and economic studies that will inform future discussions with industry, First Nation communities and government, and will lay the groundwork for smart, sustainable and collaborative development in the ROF region.
The 2016 Ontario Budget: Jobs for Today and Tomorrow, which outlines the next phase of the Government's plan to create jobs and economic growth, reiterated Ontario’s $1 billion commitment to develop transportation infrastructure in the ROF region.

Ontario remains committed to working with any and all interested parties on opportunities to responsibly develop the ROF including the recently elected federal government.

Ring of Fire – Aboriginal Relations

Throughout 2015-16, the Ministry continued to ensure the full participation of the Matawa-member First Nation communities in the Ring of Fire (ROF) by providing financial support for:

  • Capacity building
  • Access to the necessary technical and legal advice
  • Support for land-use planning
  • Skills training
  • Financial literacy and governance supports
  • Social investments
  • Advancing our shared commitment to the Regional Framework Agreement.

Regional Framework negotiation meetings, combined with ongoing discussions between the two lead negotiators, have resulted in progress related to:

  • Enhanced participation of First Nations in ROF environmental assessment processes including new approaches that facilitate culturally sensitive consultation processes;
  • Regional long-term environmental monitoring or stewardship approaches to help address potential cumulative effects associated with development in the ROF;
  • Strategies to improve social and economic development supports in Matawa-member communities, including on-reserve water quality, and a commitment  to explore mechanisms that may help enable investments to respond to community priorities; and
  • Informed technical discussions with First Nations regarding options for regional infrastructure development for First Nations communities. This may include community access roads, broadband and energy transmission.

The Ministry also signed or made progress on the implementation on a number of bi-lateral agreements (MOUs, MOCs, and MPOs) with several First Nation communities, including Neskantaga, Marten Falls and Webequie.

These bi-lateral agreements provide a framework for Ontario and the First Nation to bring together the appropriate provincial and federal ministries to respond to priority areas identified by communities and reduce barriers that prevent them from fully engaging in decision-making related to ROF activities.

The priority areas include improved communications and understanding of all projects and activities to advance on potential mining and infrastructure developments; enhanced engagement on decisions related to activities taking place close to their communities; capacity building in the community to fully participate; funding for studies to better understand the community wellness and services currently offered by governments, but potentially delivered in a more culturally effective manner.

In 2016-17, the Province hopes to make progress on our commitment to improving socio-economic supports and outcomes in Matawa-member First Nations so that these communities are prepared to effectively participate in future economic development opportunities in the ROF.

Advancing the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario

In 2011, Ontario released the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario, an economic blueprint to drive collective action by governments, communities, business, industry and the public.

The plan is designed to be responsive to northern circumstances and is based on northern input. It is driving a competitive economy by supporting people and communities. It is also renewing and expanding modern infrastructure and supporting a healthy environment.

Under the Growth Plan, steps are being taken to drive a competitive economy where northern businesses thrive. This means, taking a ‘made in the North’ approach to program delivery that contributes to Ontario’s growth and economic development.

Last year, Ontario built on the Growth Plan’s momentum. Key achievements include:

  • The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) committed approximately $126 million toward 769 projects that resulted in 2,522 jobs to be created or retained;
  • Approximately $560 million was committed for northern highways, including $173 million for expansion work and $387 million for rehabilitation. Note: Ontario has invested more than $5 billion in northern highways since 2003;
  • The Multi-modal Transportation Strategy, led by the Ministry of Transportation, will provide a plan for an integrated northern transportation network. Work has begun on the final phase of this strategy, with completion anticipated in 2017;
  • Ontario announced its intention to make the Northern Industrial Electricity Rate (NIER) program an ongoing program for qualifying large northern industrial consumers. The Government committed to a NIER program beyond March 2016, with continued investment of up to $120 million per year. To date, the NIER program has disbursed more than $650 million;
  • In December, the Ontario government announced the renewal of the Mineral Development Strategy, which meets a Growth Plan commitment;
  • Ontario is opening doors for mining supply and service companies in the North. This year alone, the Ministry sent investment teams to Australia, Peru, London and Brazil to make important connections in the international mining sector;
  • Ontario continues to prepare for the future of mining by proposing changes that would modernize the Mining Act;
  • Ontario continues to support transformation at the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission to reshape the organization to ensure a sustainable and efficient organization;
  • In the 2016 Budget, the Ontario government announced its intention to increase annual funding of the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF) from $100 million to $300 million per year, by 2018-19. The fund will continue support for the most critical projects in communities with challenging fiscal circumstances;
  • The OCIF is a key early step in implementing the Government’s 10-year economic plan, which includes $130 billion in infrastructure investments;
  • In addition to the OCIF, the Small Communities Fund, a federal/provincial initiative, Ontario and the federal government will provide $272 million each to support community projects in municipalities with fewer than 100,000 residents. Ontario recently submitted its project nominations for the Small Communities Fund to the federal government.

This year, the Ministry will develop a five-year progress update of the Growth Plan to report on progress and achievements to date.

Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation

The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) was established in 1988 with a mandate to promote and stimulate economic development initiatives in Northern Ontario by providing financial assistance to projects that stabilize, diversify and foster the economic growth and diversification of the region.  The NOHFC is an agency of the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines, and is governed by a Board of Directors from across the North that is appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council.

In August 2013, the NOHFC’s programs were realigned with the Growth Plan to provide investments for existing, emerging and priority economic sectors to drive and diversify the northern economy.

The NOHFC has five programs:

  • Northern Business Opportunity Program
  • Northern Innovation Program
  • Northern Community Capacity Building Program
  • Strategic Economic Infrastructure Program
  • Northern Ontario Internship Program.

Through our programs, in 2015-16 the NOHFC committed approximately $142 million toward 801 projects that resulted in 2,663 jobs to be created or retained.

From October 2003 to March 2016, the NOHFC approved more than $1.1 billion toward 7,310 projects. This leveraged approximately $3.9 billion from other funding sources. Those investments helped create or sustain more than 27,587 jobs across the North.

The NOHFC is making strategic investments in areas that will have the greatest impact, such as community economic infrastructure projects, private-sector expansions, business start-ups, investment/attraction, job placements for recent graduates, and northern innovation.

Recognizing the value of supporting Northern Ontario’s economy, the NOHFC has provided funding for initiatives that align with the Growth Plan, in particular, the Northern Policy Institute and the Northern Ontario Multimodal Transportation Strategy.

Highlights include NOHFC investments to Ontario's film and television industry helped it achieve its best year to date in 2015.  The sector contributed $1.5 billion to the province's economy. There more than 35 productions staged in Northern Ontario, leading to an estimated 315 jobs.

Since 2004, the NOHFC has been supporting the growth of this industry, providing over $98 million to over 150 projects, which has in turn leveraged more than $469 million from other partners. A recent success story is the multi-picture deal with the Motion Picture Corporation of America worth nearly $100 million for Hideaway Pictures, a past NOHFC recipient based in Sudbury.

By supporting the research, development and commercialization of new technologies, Ontario continues to invest in the future prosperity of the North. The NOHFC invested $814,000 to support Lakehead University in the creation of a five-year Industrial Research Chair position in Green Chemicals and Processes.  The project will focus on ways for the pulp and paper and mining industries to reduce their environmental impacts.

The Ministry is also strengthening the North’s competitive advantage by attracting and retaining graduates through our internship program, which provides post-secondary graduates with valuable work experience to prepare for their future careers. 

This year, NOHFC invested $13.2 million to help 509 young people secure job placements to get valuable training and experience for their future in fields such as: mechanical technology, marketing, accounting, law, information technology, health research, human resources, laboratory analysis, and software development.

Northern Policy Institute

By investing in quality research to guide public policy development, Ontario is making more informed decisions. The Northern Policy Institute, made possible by a $5 million contribution from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, is an independent, not-for-profit organization that provides a northern perspective. Grounded in solid research it serves as a guide for public policy development and provides information to governments, municipalities, communities, First Nations, businesses and industries in Northern Ontario.

Northern Ontario Trade and Investment 

MNDM worked with a wide range of Northern Ontario-based companies and stakeholders seeking to expand and diversify by exporting goods and services into foreign markets.

The Ministry also identifies and promotes new and/or expanding businesses opportunities in Northern Ontario and throughout Ontario for the mining sector with the best opportunity to attract foreign direct investment and to create growth and employment.

In 2015-16, the Ministry led 15 domestic and international trade and investment marketing events. These included the Ministry’s sponsorship and participation in the Mines and Money conference in London to promote Ontario’s mineral investment potential to international investors and financiers.

This year, the Ministry also announced Ontario’s co-sponsorship of the Mines and Money Americas conference in the fall of 2016-17, in Toronto. The Mines and Money trade conference is one of the world’s largest mining investment forums, attracting over 3,000 qualified investors from all stages of the mining investment cycle, and about 900 exhibitors. This marks the first time in the organization’s 13-year history that their conference is held in the Americas.

Each year, the Ministry also participates in the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) Annual Conference.  It is one of the world’s leading mining conventions and is attended by more than 25,000 delegates from in excess of 100 countries. The PDAC plays a significant role in promoting trade and investment opportunities in the North with more than $72 million in closed trade sales in the past four years.

Ministry support for these sectors contributed to the following results in 2015-16:

  • 121 new investment/trade leads;
  • Four incoming international trade missions; and
  • Over 250 business to business meetings and 60 corporate calls in foreign markets.

The Mining Memorandum of Understanding between Ontario and India, signed in 2010, continues making significant progress towards developing trade and investment opportunities between the jurisdictions. New projects in the northeast of the province resulting from this relationship will be announced in 2016. 

A market entry strategy was developed in 2015 focusing on the mining supply and services sector in Australia.  For the first time, there was an MNDM trade mission to Australia which resulted in a new investment and a business relationship between the two jurisdictions.

Regional Economic Development

Ontario is supporting northern communities by helping them to attract and develop investment opportunities.  The Province’s Northern Communities Investment Readiness (NCIR) initiative invested more than $168,000 in 16 new investment projects led by northern communities, First Nations and economic development corporations last year.

The NCIR program was launched in 2006 to support and promote a strong investment attraction climate in Northern Ontario and to assist northern communities in developing the tools and capability to receive, develop, and successfully attract investment opportunities.

Through a network of 26 Northern Ontario offices, ministry staff promoted and delivered programs, services and funding to build community infrastructure and assist communities in undertaking economic development projects and businesses in start-up, retention and expansion opportunities. 

In 2015-16, staff assisted 560 public and private sector clients (including 59 Aboriginal clients) to identify and develop economic development initiatives and business development opportunities across the North.

Since 2006, NCIR has supported 406 community-based projects valued at more than $4.4 million, which includes 19 projects in 2015-16, eight of which were for Aboriginal communities. The program is viewed as a valued resource for northern communities with a population of fewer than 10,000 residents.

Ontario Northland Transportation Commission

The Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC), an agency of the Province of Ontario, provides reliable and efficient transportation solutions to northeastern Ontario.

Headquartered in North Bay, services include the Polar Bear Express passenger train service between Cochrane and Moosonee, rail freight services, refurbishment services, scheduled and charter motor coach services and bus parcel express.

In 2015-16, the Ministry approved more than $89 million for capital and operating expenses for the ONTC. This investment supports vital transportation services in northeastern Ontario and work for the ONTC refurbishment division.

To establish a firm path for transformation, the ONTC continues to identify and move forward with changes to its business lines that will support sustainable operations. The ONTC is finding a balance between operational efficiencies and ensuring that important transportation services are available.

Results achieved this year included a new motor coach ticketing and reservation management system which provides real time data so the ONTC may manage equipment more effectively and provide quality service and business intelligence. The ONTC’s network of stations and dispatchers, as well as the agency’s partners, are actively using the new system.

Locomotive maintenance continues its transition from the North Bay shops to the Cochrane Mechanical Facility in order to enhance fleet asset management.

The agency’s finance department continues to modernize its business processes and technology to enable prompt decision making and making the workplace greener. This ongoing project includes eliminating paper-based, manual accounts payable processes and implementing electronic approval, tracking, storage and processing for all invoices. To date, this has reduced the average time to pay suppliers, down to 12 days from 23 days, and created an opportunity to take payment discounts.

Labour is a critical component of transforming the ONTC for long term sustainability and for keeping the business lines in public hands.  The ONTC continued to make progress on labour negotiations with the unions representing its employees.  Five year agreements were ratified with four of the five unions including Unifor, United Steel Workers, Teamsters Canada-Rail and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.  Negotiations have commenced with Teamsters – Motor Coach Operators.

Owen Sound Transportation Company

The Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC) is one of Ontario’s largest ferry operators with a highly experienced and dedicated staff providing state-of-the-art passenger, vehicle and cargo transportation services to northern and southwestern Ontario waterways.

An operational enterprise agency of the Province of Ontario, the OSTC owns and operates a seasonal vehicle and passenger ferry, the MS Chi-Cheemaun, from Tobermory to Manitoulin Island and MV Niska 1, a landing craft style ferry between Moosonee and Moose Factory Island on the Moose River, just south of James Bay in Northern Ontario.

The OSTC also provides vessel management services for the Ministry of Transportation for two vessels, the MV Pelee Islander and the MV Jiimaan, operating on the Pelee Island service and a daily air service between the Ontario mainland and Pelee Island during the winter months when the ferry service is not in operation.

In 2015, higher than usual ice levels on Georgian Bay delayed the start to the Chi-Cheemaun sailing season. Ice levels eventually receded, and the ferry’s season officially launched on May 5, 2015.  In spite of this late start, the OSTC still managed to achieve a 10.8 per cent increase in passenger traffic in 2015 as a result of its successful marketing strategy and rebranding campaign, which included an exterior update of the Chi-Cheemaun with native art motifs.

In 2015-16 the Chi-Cheemaun, a four decade old ferry, underwent $3.2-million worth of renovations including a cafeteria redesign, security system upgrades, and various deck and engine replacements.

The renovations are the first stage in a three-year plan to renovate the interior of the four-decade old ferry. Renovations planned for the next two winters include upgrades to the lounge area and plans to renovate the children’s play area and event/gallery space.

The ferry upgrades are part of a commitment in the Ontario Budget to support essential ferry services for northern communities.

Northern Industrial Electricity Rate Program

The Northern Industrial Electricity Rate (NIER) program assists Northern Ontario’s largest industrial electricity consumers to reduce energy costs, sustain jobs and maintain global competitiveness. The NIER program is part of the Government's plan to strengthen the economy and support a dynamic and innovative business climate that attracts investment and helps create jobs.

On April 7, 2015, the Ontario government announced its intention to make the NIER program ongoing with a continued investment of up to $120 million per year, available for qualifying large northern industrial consumers.

NIER program participants receive a rebate of two cents per kilowatt hour. On average, industrial electricity prices can be reduced by up to 25 per cent through the program. Participants are also required to develop and implement an energy management plan to manage their energy usage and reduce costs.

In 2015-16, 16 participating northern industrial companies, representing 25 facilities across the North, received a rebate of two cents per kilowatt-hour to a maximum of 2011-12 eligible consumption levels, or to a maximum of $20 million per company, per year.  To date, the NIER program has disbursed more than $650 million.

Northern Highways and Winter Roads

For 2015-16, MNDM, through the Northern Highways Program, committed close to $560 million in northern highway rehabilitation and expansion to improve road safety, quality of life for northerners and spur economic development. Highlights include:

  • Approximately $173 million for system expansion including four-laning and safety initiative projects;
  • Approximately $387 million for system rehabilitation;
  • Continued work on 20 kilometres of Highway 69 four-laning; and
  • 9 kilometres of new four-laned highway on 69/400 opened to traffic in September 2015.

Ontario is investing in highway infrastructure in northeastern Ontario to make travel easier and safer. Investing in roads, highways and bridges is part of the Ontario government’s Growth Plan for Northern Ontario.

These projects are part of the largest infrastructure investment in Ontario’s history — about $160 billion over 12 years, which is supporting 110,000 jobs every year across the Province, with projects such as roads, bridges, transit systems, schools and hospitals. In 2015, the Province announced support for more than 325 projects that will keep people and goods moving, connect communities and improve quality of life.

In 2015-16, the Ministry invested $5 million through the Winter Roads program to help fund seasonal access to remote northern communities that are not connected to the Province’s highway network.

Ontario’s investments included both maintenance and construction, and covering more than 3,100 kilometres that serve a total resident population of approximately 21,000 people and link 31 remote First Nations in the Far North. As a result, northerners have more economical and safe access to services and supplies. MNDM is committed to seizing opportunities to improve this network and transportation in our Far North.

Experimental Lakes Area

In 2013, Ontario signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Institute of Sustainable Development and Fisheries and Oceans Canada that ensured the survival of the Experimental Lakes Area (ELA). The ELA is a one-of-a-kind world-renowned freshwater research facility that attracts scientists from across Canada and around the world.

Ontario will invest $2 million per year to keep the facility operating as part of the plan to foster research and innovation in Ontario.

The important science and research conducted at the ELA informs Ontario’s pollution reduction strategies, understanding of climate change, and to better protect lakes and rivers in Ontario and beyond.

Ensuring this important information continues to be collected will help identify emerging threats to the environment and understand critical changes in ecological communities over time.

Mineral Sector Highlights

A key driver of Ontario’s economy, the mining industry supports more than 26,000 direct and 50,000 indirect jobs, with the value of Ontario’s mineral production reaching $10.8 billion in 2015.

In March 2015, the Ministry launched a discussion paper on mineral development to seek input from stakeholders to help guide the sustainable management and stewardship of mineral resources in Ontario. Based on this input, Ontario renewed its Mineral Development Strategy which was released in December 2015.

The renewal of the strategy was one of the key commitments of the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario, a 25-year plan to build a prosperous North by creating a diversified economy, stronger communities, a healthy environment and a skilled, adaptive and innovative workforce – all in the spirit of reconciliation with Aboriginal peoples.

The renewed strategy provides a 10-year vision to position Ontario as the global leader in sustainable mineral development and confirms the Province's commitment to attracting new investment and supporting innovation in the mineral exploration and development sector.

The strategy consists of a 10-point action plan with four strategic priorities to ensure the mining sector is:

  • Competitive and innovative by attracting jobs and investment, increasing mineral discovery rates, and fostering a culture of innovation;
  • Safe and environmentally responsible by enhancing worker health and safety and protecting the environment for future generations;
  • Efficiently and effectively regulated by clarifying Aboriginal consultation requirements, and improving online claim registration and the permits and approvals process; and
  • Providing growth and prosperity for future generations by enhancing Aboriginal voices and establishing the necessary socio-economic conditions to develop the workforce of tomorrow.

For 2015-16, Ontario is projected to be the leading jurisdiction in Canada for the exploration and production of minerals and a major global player.

Despite a world-wide downturn in metals prices and a general reduction in exploration spending, in 2015, the value of mineral production was $10.8 billion. This makes Ontario the top province in Canada for mineral production.

Active mining claim units for 2015 are approximately 209,000. There are 30 advanced mineral projects in Ontario and mine construction is underway at about three of these.

The total number of direct jobs in mineral production was 26,000 in 2014.  There are also an additional 50,000 jobs associated with manufacturing and processing. The mineral sector is the largest private sector employer of Aboriginal peoples in Canada.

The Government has invested almost $160 million in Ontario’s mineral sector activities to date; including but not limited to:

  • $40 million for initiatives to support Mining Act Modernization;
  • $2.6 million  to support mining supply and services companies in expanding their export capacity and increase sales to international markets;
  • More than $10 million in the Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation; and
  • $110 million in the Abandoned Mines Rehabilitation program (since 2003).

Junior Exploration Assistance Program

In 2015-16, in support of the renewed Mineral Development Strategy, the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) signed an agreement with the Ontario Prospector’s Association (OPA) to invest $5 million in a Junior Exploration Assistance Program (JEAP). This program is expected to provide much needed financial support for mineral exploration projects, and could support as many as 45 exploration projects.

Building on their core expertise, this program and the investment associated with it will be delivered by the OPA. This $5 million investment will allow the OPA to provide grants to qualifying junior exploration companies completing early stage exploration on properties in Northern Ontario. This new program is targeting companies with a market capitalization of less than $5 million, and will provide explorers a reimbursement of up to 33.33 per cent of their exploration spending to a maximum of $100,000 for a single project. Each qualifying company will be allowed to fund two separate projects.

Modernizing of the Mining Act

In 2015-16, Ontario took further steps to modernize the Mining Act.

In December 2015, new proposed changes to further modernize the Mining Act were tabled in the Legislature. If passed, these changes would improve the administration of an online claim registration and integrated land management system.

If passed, the administration of mining lands would evolve from the current paper-based process to a digital process.  This would involve a one-time conversation process of all legacy mining claims to cell and boundary claims on a provincial grid.  Both of these elements were included in previous public consultations and postings regarding implementation of the process to modernize the Mining Act.

There was a great deal of consultation and stakeholder engagement leading up to the December introduction of legislation.

In 2015, the Ministry built on consultation conducted in the previous year and held 26 sessions with industry that focused on refining business requirements, while the Aboriginal sessions focused on information exchange and engagement relative to the proposed changes to the Mining Act.

The Ministry continues to be committed to modernizing the Mining Act to help ensure Ontario remains the global leader in sustainable mineral development.

Thanks to changes to the Mining Act introduced in 2013-14, the Ministry witnessed results that included requirements for exploration plans and permits, the submission of expenses for geo-referencing mining claims and expenses related to Aboriginal consultation.
In 2015-16, 125 active exploration plans and 140 exploration permits were issued. In 2015/16, MNDM approved assessment credits of $1,788,399 for the geo-referencing of mining claims, and $129,133 for Aboriginal Consultation.  Some 1,156 prospectors and interested parties have taken the online Mining Act Awareness Program.

To help enable effective consultation with Aboriginal communities, the Ministry introduced the Aboriginal Capacity Initiative. This was a three-year pilot (2012-2015) to assist Aboriginal communities to participate effectively in consultation on exploration plans and permits, and closure plans within timeframes outlined in new Mining Act regulations. The initiative targets support to Aboriginal communities located in areas with high mineral exploration activity.

Abandoned Mines Rehabilitation Program

The Abandoned Mines Rehabilitation program promotes the rehabilitation of Ontario’s abandoned mine sites to make the lands available for other uses and to help ensure abandoned mine sites do not become a lasting environmental and health concern.

This work demonstrates Ontario’s commitment to a strong and sustainable mining industry that works to ensure the protection of the environment and provides substantive and sustainable benefits to communities.

In 2015-16, Ontario provided $5.87 million to conduct reclamation work on 11 sites.

Geoscience Mapping

2016 marks the 125th anniversary of the Ontario Geological Survey (OGS), a globally renowned division of Ontario’s Ministry of Northern Development and Mines.

Since its establishment, the OGS has contributed significantly to fostering investment in Ontario, protecting public health and safety, informing environmental and land-use planning decisions, and helping the Province become Canada’s top mineral jurisdiction.

The OGS collects and shares geoscience information across Ontario to attract and guide mineral sector investment and inform a broad range of government policy priorities, such as:

  • Identifying  potential for minerals, energy and groundwater;
  • Land-use planning decisions by Aboriginal communities, Ministry of Municipal Affair and Housing, Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, and municipalities; and
  • Decisions related to other ministry policy initiatives, such as the Far North Act, source water protection and development, public protection from natural geological hazards, and characterization of the state of the environment from a geological perspective.

2015-16 accomplishments that continue to grow Ontario’s geoscience information include:

  • Delivery of 69 geological projects across Ontario, including in the Ring of Fire area;
  • Participation in another 24 collaborative geoscience projects with other federal, provincial and municipal governments, First Nation bands and organizations, conservation authorities, the cities of Ottawa and Guelph, and academia;
  • The technical transfer of geological and groundwater, aggregate, energy, and mineral related geological insights to users at about 20 technical trade shows and meetings of international, national and provincial scope;
  • Representation of Ontario’s geoscience interests in the International Great Lakes Geological Mapping Coalition, the Institute of Lake Superior Geology, and nationally through the National Geological Surveys Committee;
  • Development of digital geoscience digital products (including the production of its ten thousandth map), resulting in approximately 600,000 downloads; and
  • Publication of 219 new geoscience products.

Ontario is home to a highly productive, technologically advanced, environmentally sound and safe mining industry, and the work of the OGS continues to contribute to our longstanding reputation as Canada’s leading mining jurisdiction.

Table 3:  Ministry Interim Actual Expenditures 2015-16

Expenditure TypeInterim Actual Expenditures (reflect the numbers presented in the 2016 Ontario Budget)
Operating$381.1 million
Capital$359.7 million
Total$740.8 million

Staff Strength (OPS full-time equivalent positions as of March 31, 2016):  455.0

Part Two: 2016-17 Detailed Financials

Section A: Ministry Summary Information

2016-17 Expenditure Estimates Ministry Summaries

As the regional ministry for Northern Ontario and the ministry responsible for the provincial minerals sector, the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines strives to make Northern Ontario and the provincial minerals sector strong, healthy and prosperous.

The Ministry leads and coordinates government programs aimed at growing the Northern Ontario economy, building strong northern communities, promoting trade and investment, creating job opportunities and developing the North's transportation and telecommunications infrastructure. Through the Ministry's network of offices and strategic program and policy development, the Ministry ensures northern partners including municipalities, Aboriginal communities, northern organizations, industry and the northern public have access to government economic development programs and services and a voice in government decisions affecting the North.

As the sectoral ministry for the provincial minerals sector, the Ministry helps build a strong, safe and sustainable Ontario by promoting investment and exploration, by providing information to global clients on Ontario's wealth of mineral resources and through the fair, effective and efficient administration of Ontario's Mining Act. The Ministry delivers geoscience information for all regions of the province in support of a range of provincial development, planning, environmental, energy, and climate change policy priorities. The Ministry also encourages and facilitates Aboriginal participation in Ontario's economy, administers Ontario's diamond royalty and ensures safe, environmentally sound mineral development and rehabilitation of mining lands.

As the lead ministry providing support for policy and program development and implementation on a range of issues and opportunities with respect to development in the area known as the Ring of Fire, the Ministry works with all parties involved, consulting Northerners, including Aboriginal people and the mining community, to encourage responsible, sustainable development. 

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Chart A1 – Total Operating Summary by Vote

A pie chart illustrates the percentage of operating funding by vote. Vote 2201 - Ministry Administration Program - 4% Vote 2202 - Northern Development Program - 75% Vote 2203 - Mines and Minerals Program - 21%

Table A1: Total Operating Summary by Vote
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines

A detailed financial summary illustrates the estimated 2016-17 operating expenses and assets, as well as the change in estimates from 2015-16, the percentage change in estimates from 2015-16, the estimates in 2015-16, the interim actuals in 2015-16 and th

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Chart A2 – Total Capital Summary by Vote

A pie chart illustrates the percentage of capital funding spent by vote: Northern Development - 89% Mines and Minerals - 11%

Table A2: Total Capital Summary by Vote
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines

A detailed financial summary illustrates the estimated 2016-17 capital expenses and assets, as well as the change in estimates from 2015-16, the percentage change in estimates from 2015-16, the estimates in 2015-16, the interim actuals in 2015-16 and the

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Chart A3 – Operating Summary by Standard Account

A pie chart illustrates the percentage of operating funding spent by standard account. Other Direct Operating Expenses - 17% Other Transactions - 0% Payroll - 13% Transfer Payments - 70%

Table A3: Operating Summary by Vote and Standard Account
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines

A detailed financial summary illustrates the operating expenses and assets in Vote 2201 (Ministry Administration), Vote 2202 (Northern Development) and Vote 2203 (Mines and Minerals), as well as the total and percentage for the Ministry.

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Chart A4 – Capital Summary by Standard Account

A pie chart illustrates the percentage of capital funding by standard account. Other Direct Operating Expenses - 16% Other Transactions - 61% Transfer Payments - 23%

Table A4: Capital Summary by Vote and Standard Account
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines

A detailed financial chart outlines the capital expenses and assets in Vote 2201 (Ministry Administration), Vote 2202 (Northern Development) and Vote 2203 (Mines and Minerals), as well as the total and percentage for the Ministry.

Section B: Vote Summary Information

Vote 2201 – Ministry Administration Program

A pie chart outlines the percentage of operating by standard account. Other Direct Operating Expenses - 58% Payroll - 42%

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines

Ministry Administration Program – Vote 2201

This program provides executive direction as well as strategic business and resource planning services to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of ministry programs.  It supports Ministry operations through the provision of advice and services in the areas of human resources, financial planning, accounting and administration, and professional support services such as legal and audit services.  It also provides core strategic support in the areas of corporate policy and communications.

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table B1: Vote 2201 – Ministry Administration Program – Operating

A detailed financial summary illustrates the estimated 2016-17 operating expenses and assets for Vote 2201, as well as the change in estimates from 2015-16, the percentage change in estimates from 2015-16, the estimates in 2015-16, the interim actuals in

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table B2: Vote 2201 – Ministry Administration Program – Capital

A detailed financial summary illustrates the estimated 2016-17 capital expenses and assets, as well as the change in estimates from 2015-16, the percentage change in estimates from 2015-16, the estimates in 2015-16, the interim actuals in 2015-16 and the

Section C1:   Ministry Administration Program 
Item/Sub-Item Summary Information

Vote/Item:  2201-01
Vote:  Ministry Administration Program
Item:  Ministry Administration
Type:  Operating Expense

Item Description

This program provides executive direction and strategic business and resource planning services to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of ministry programs.  Through sound management of ministry resources and policy, financial and communications leadership, this program supports the achievement of ministry and government objectives.

Functions
  • Provide executive direction for the planning and administration of ministry policies, programs and services;
  • Provide strategic advice and direction in the development and management of ministry business and resource plans;
  • Provide core strategic support in the areas of corporate policy and communications; and
  • Support ministry operations with the provision of advice and services in the areas of human resources, financial planning, accounting and administration, and professional support services such as legal and audit services.
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table C1: Comparative Details - Operating Expense

A detailed financial table outlines operating expenses in Vote/Item 2201-01, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table C2: Comparative Details - Capital Expense

A detailed financial table outlines capital expenses in Vote/Item 2201-03, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table C3: Comparative Details - Operating Asset

A detailed financial table outlines operating assets in Vote/Item 2201-02, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table C4: Comparative Details - Capital Asset

A detailed financial table outlines capital assets in Vote/Item 2201-04, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Vote 2202 – Northern Development Program

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines

A pie chart illustrates operating by standard account. Other Direct Operating Expenses - 4% Other Transactions - 0% Payroll - 5% Transfer Payments - 91%

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines

A pie chart illustrates capital expenses by standard account. Other Transactions - 68% Services - 6% Transfer Payments - 26%

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines

Northern Development Program – Vote 2202

This program leads and assists in the development and delivery of policies, programs and services that support Northern Ontario businesses and communities.  In addition, the program strives to make Northern Ontario strong, healthy and prosperous by providing business and community economic development support and access to government programs and services, promoting trade and investment, and answering northern regional and local infrastructure needs.  It also co-leads the implementation of the government’s Growth Plan for Northern Ontario, 2011 through the coordination of provincial economic development initiatives in the North.

The program provides support for policy and program development and implementation on a range of issues and opportunities with respect to Northern Ontario.  By engaging Northerners in government initiatives, including policy and planning activities, this program also ensures Northerners have a say in the development of government programs and services that affect them.  The program is responsible for applying a Northern lens for policy review and development and champions Northern Ontario interests to further economic development.

This program invests in Northern Ontario infrastructure to support government priorities.  Strategic investments in infrastructure such as the Northern Highways Program and telecommunications and information technology are improving the North’s linkages to the rest of Ontario, Canada and beyond.
The program area provides economic development support to Northern Ontario businesses and communities.  Through this program, the Ministry’s network of offices provides northern communities and businesses with access to government economic development programs and services.  Ministry programs work to attract trade and investment opportunities to help northern businesses develop and expand domestic and international markets.  The Ministry also helps public and private sector economic growth, diversification and job creation through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation and initiatives such as the Northern Industrial Electricity Rate Program. 

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines

Table B3: Vote 2202 – Northern Development Program – Operating

A detailed financial table outlines operating expenses and assets in Vote/Item 2202, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table B4: Vote 2202 – Northern Development Program – Capital

A detailed financial table outlines capital expenses and assets in Vote/Item 2202, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Section C2:   Northern Development Program 
Item/Sub-Item Summary Information

Vote/Item:  2202-01
Vote:  Northern Development Program
Item:  Northern Economic Development
Type:  Operating Expense

Item Description

Under the banner of Northern Economic Development, the Ministry delivers the following programs:

  • Northern and Regional Policy Interests;
  • Northern Transportation Networks;
  • Business Development and Support;
  • ONTC Commercial Services;
  • Industrial Energy Support;
  • Industrial Support – Special Assistance; and
  • Community Support.
Functions
  • Lead the development and implementation of initiatives to stimulate economic growth in the North;
  • Ensure access for northerners to all Ontario government programs focused on economic growth and job creation in Northern Ontario through a network of offices in 26 communities across the North;
  • Assist communities to build capacity including municipalities, First Nations, Local Service Boards and not-for-profit organizations;
  • Work with northern communities to help them become better prepared to take advantage of new economic opportunities;
  • Implement the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario, 2011;
  • Market Northern Ontario's strengths and opportunities to the world;
  • Promote Northern Ontario by assisting Northern Ontario companies to grow and expand their business globally though collaborative international marketing, sales support services and lead generation; and
  • Deliver the Northern Industrial Electricity Rate Program.
Agencies:
Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC)
  • The NOHFC delivers five funding programs: Strategic Economic Infrastructure Program; Community Capacity Building Program; Northern Innovation Program; Northern Business Opportunity Program; and Northern Internship Program.
Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC) and Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC)
  • Transportation services in Northeastern Ontario are delivered by the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission and the Owen Sound Transportation Company.
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table C5: Comparative Details - Operating Expense

A detailed financial table outlines operating expenses in Vote/Item 2202-01, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table C6: Comparative Details - Operating Asset

A detailed financial table outlines operating assets in Vote/Item 2202-03, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Vote/Item:  2202-02
Vote:  Northern Development Program
Item:  Northern Economic Development
Type:  Capital Expense

Item Description

This activity supports roads in unincorporated areas, winter and access roads, Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC) and Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC) capital requirements and railway infrastructure renewal. It also provides investment capital to the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC).

Functions
  • Establish program priorities and provide funding for the ongoing maintenance and reconstruction of recognized roads in unincorporated areas (Local Roads Boards);
  • Provide financial support for the construction and reconstruction of forest access and orphan roads for resource planning and management (Resource Access Roads);
  • Provide financial support to remote First Nations communities for the construction of winter roads for economic and social development, bulk freight transportation and improvement to standards of living (Winter Roads Program); and
  • Provide financial support to the OSTC and to the ONTC for capital renewal projects.
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table C7: Comparative Details - Capital Expense

A detailed financial table outlines capital expenses in Vote/Item 2202-02, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Vote/Item:  2202-04
Vote:  Northern Development Program
Item:  Northern Development Capital Assets
Type:  Capital Asset

Item Description

This activity supports provincial investments in Northern Highways.

Functions
  • In consultation with the Ministry of Transportation, establish program priorities and provide funding for the ongoing rehabilitation and selective expansion, including four-laning, of the North's10,600 kilometer highway network;
  • Continued implementation of the Northern Highways Strategy as part of the government's Infrastructure Strategy; and
  • Continued implementation of the plan to four-lane Highway 69 and the Highway 11/17 corridor between Thunder Bay and Nipigon.
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table C8: Comparative Details - Capital Asset

A detailed financial table outlines capital assets in Vote/Item 2202-04, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Vote 2203 – Mines and Minerals Program
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines

A pie chart illustrates operating expenses by standard account. Other Direct Operating Expenses - 54% Other Transactions - 1% Payroll - 37% Transfer Payments - 8%

A pie chart illustrates capital expenses by standard account. Other Direct Operating Expenses - 100%

Mines and Minerals Program – Vote 2203

This program encourages, promotes and facilitates the sustained economic benefits of Ontario’s mineral resources through its oversight of Ontario’s mineral exploration and development sector.  It promotes a strong, safe and sustainable Ontario by administering Ontario’s Mining Act in a fair and consistent manner, to ensure sustainable and responsible development of our mineral resources.  This involves ensuring equitable public access to Crown mineral rights, fair and efficient management of Ontario’s mining lands as well as ensuring the safe, environmentally sound mineral development and rehabilitation of mining lands.

It also has responsibility for encouraging and facilitating Aboriginal participation in Ontario’s economy in a way that is respectful of Aboriginal rights and culture and meets Ontario’s consultation obligations.

The program also generates and disseminates geoscientific data that attracts and guides mineral sector investment and informs a broad range of government policy priorities.

It administers the Ontario Diamond Royalty Regulation, values rough stones for export, and works with industry partners to pursue value-added opportunities throughout the diamond industry.

This program also provides support for policy and program development and implementation on a range of issues and opportunities with respect to development in the Ring of Fire.  A dedicated secretariat works with all parties involved, consulting with Northerners including Aboriginal people and the mining community to encourage the region’s responsible, sustainable development.

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table B5: Vote 2203 – Mines and Minerals Program – Operating

A detailed financial table outlines operating expenses and assets in Vote/Item 2203, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table B6: Vote 2203 – Mines and Minerals Program – Capital

A detailed financial table outlines capital expenses and assets in Vote/Item 2203, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Section C3: Mines and Minerals Program 
Item/Sub-Item Summary Information

Vote/Item:  2203-01
Vote:   Mines and Minerals Program
Item:   Mineral Sector Competitiveness
Type:   Operating Expense

Item Description

Through Mineral Sector Competitiveness, the Ministry delivers the following programs:

  • Regulatory Administration of the Mining Act;
  • Geoscience Information;
  • Mineral Development Investment and Opportunity;
  • Aboriginal Relations;
  • Ring of Fire Aboriginal Relations; and
  • Ring of Fire Infrastructure Development.
Functions
  • Administer the Mining Act, including providing orderly and equitable processes and land information that ensures public access to Crown mineral rights and secures tenure for exploration and potential development of mining lands, and Part VII of the Mining Act which deals principally with the rehabilitation of mines and mining lands in Ontario;
  • Through the Ontario Geological Survey, (OGS) collect and disseminate geoscience information to attract and guide mineral sector investment, as well as inform public policy priorities such as sustainable communities, land use planning, and public health and safety of communities through groundwater aquifer mapping, aggregate resource mapping, and provision of expert geoscience knowledge workers;
  • Identify strategic investment opportunities, through research and analysis, to influence investment-related policies that support Ontario’s mineral competitiveness;
  • Ensure Ontario receives a fair share of the value of mineral resources extracted from the province including value-added opportunities for Ontario’s emerging diamond sector, and administers Ontario’s diamond royalty;
  • Market internationally Ontario's mineral resource and non-renewable energy potential to attract investment and foster growth in the province's mineral sector;
  • Encourage and facilitate Aboriginal participation in Ontario’s economy in a way that recognizes and is respectful of Aboriginal rights and culture; and
  • In supporting Ring of Fire development, the province continues to focus on building wealth, facilitating job creation and generating opportunity for Ontarians by supporting development of, and access to, new mineral wealth in Ontario’s Far North.
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table C9: Comparative Details - Operating Expense

A detailed financial table outlines operating expenses in Vote/Item 2203-01, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table C10: Comparative Details - Operating Asset

A detailed financial table outlines operating assets in Vote/Item 2203-03, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Vote/Item:  2203-02
Vote:   Mines and Minerals Program
Item:   Mineral Sector Competitiveness
Type:   Capital Expense

Item Description

The Abandoned Mines Rehabilitation Program invests in the rehabilitation of abandoned mine sites on Crown-held lands to ensure public safety, improve the environment and make these lands available for productive use.  Also included in this item is capital investment in equipment at the ministry’s Geoscience Laboratories.

Functions
  • Reduce the Crown’s liability on abandoned mine sites to meet federal and provincial environmental regulations/legislation and return these lands to productive use;
  • Enhance public safety and environmental protection, in conjunction with the sustainable development of mineral resources.  Rehabilitation will enhance the availability of green space, protect wildlife habitat and return previously hazardous and polluted lands to reasonable and productive use; and
  • Maintain instrumentation and infrastructure including specialized equipment, and exhaust and ventilation systems through investments in Geoscience Laboratories equipment.
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table C11: Comparative Details - Capital Expense

A detailed financial table outlines capital expenses in Vote/Item 2203-02, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table C12: Comparative Details - Capital Expense

Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
Table C13: Comparative Details - Capital Asset

A detailed financial table outlines capital assets in Vote/Item 2203-04, including Estimates for 2016-17, Dollar and Percentage Change from Estimates for 2015-16, Estimates for 2015-16, Interim Actuals for 2015-16 and Actuals for 2014-15.