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  • The old Precambrian Shield rocks consist of crystalline granite, sedimentary rocks, and highly deformed rocks that have undergone a complex history of volcanic eruptions, mountain building, faulting, deformation, burial, uplift, weathering and erosion; these are the Superior Province, Southern Province and Grenville Province.

News Release

Ontario Opens Dialogue On Changes To Mining Act

August 11, 2008

McGuinty Government Starts Modernization Process With Meetings in Timmins

NEWS 

The Ministry of Northern Development and Mines is launching its public consultations on the modernization of the Mining Act today in Timmins.

The modernization process will build on commitments outlined in Ontario’s Mineral Development Strategy, and on input and information received during previous consultations and dialogues – including ongoing discussions regarding an Aboriginal Consultation Approach for Mineral Sector Activities, the EBR-Environmental Registry posting on surface and mineral rights issues, consultations on Ontario’s Mineral Development Strategy and preliminary discussions toward the development of a Growth Plan for Northern Ontario.

Discussion will focus on five policy issues:  The mineral tenure system, including free entry, and security of investment; Aboriginal rights and interests related to mining development; regulatory processes for exploration activities on Crown land; land use planning in Ontario’s Far North as it relates to mineral exploration and development; and private rights and interests relating to mineral development.

The first public consultation will be held today from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Howard Johnson Inn in Timmins.

QUOTES

“By modernizing the Mining Act, we can ensure that our legislation continues to promote fair, balanced and sustainable mineral development that benefits the province and respects communities,” said Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle.

QUICK FACTS

  • The mining industry is the largest private sector employer of Aboriginal Canadians.
  • Other stakeholder and public sessions are planned for Sudbury (August 13), Thunder Bay (August 18), Kingston (August 28) and Toronto (September 8).
  • Focused discussions will also take place with industry representatives and First Nations and Métis leaders. The ministry will also seek input from First Nation communities across Ontario.

LEARN MORE

Anne-Marie Flanagan, Minister’s Office, 416-327-0655

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