B.C.’s mining industry is voicing strong approval for mining-related provisions of Premier Christy Clark’s BC Jobs Plan.
The plan, announced late last week, commits the province to eight new mines and the expansion of another nine mines now operating in B.C. by 2015.
The plan also commits $24 million to reducing wait times for approvals and permits for natural resource development. Once the backlog is reduced, the plan identifies a turnaround target of 60 days on notices of work for mines.
Stakeholders that have voiced support for the mining aspects of the plan include:
-the Association for Mineral Exploration BC (AME BC);
-the Mining Suppliers Association of B.C. (MSABC); and
-Cardero Coal Ltd.
“We were very pleased to hear that opening eight new mines and expanding another nine mines currently operating in B.C. by 2015 was a key priority of the BC Jobs Plan,” said Patty Moore, chair of MSABC, in a statement.
“The construction and operation of these new mines will create thousands of new jobs for mine suppliers, contractors and consultants working in communities across B.C.
Moore also commended the plan’s commitment to reducing permitting and environmental assessment backlogs.
In a statement, AME BC president and CEO Gavin Dirom said that new mines in B.C. potentially represent the creation of 10,000 new jobs over the next decade.
“We are confident that once implemented, the BC Jobs Plan will lead to new opportunities that will allow the mineral exploration sector to advance their projects in B.C.,” he said.
Jenny Wagler
Twitter: JennyWagler_BIV