Message from the Minister of State and Accountability Statement
Today, mining is a $5 billion industry in British Columbia. Mineral exploration investment hit $220 million in 2005, an increase
of 600 per cent over 2001. The government's policies have strengthened industry confidence in B.C.'s regulatory regime, resulting
in increased industry investment.
For fiscal year 2005/2006, I have been responsible for the following three results:
- Develop options for streamlining mine and mineral exploration approval processes to increase global investment in British Columbia's mining sector and present a status report to the Government Caucus Committee on Natural Resources and Economy;
- Prepare user-friendly guidelines to reflect the environmental standards and regulations used in mining and present the guidelines to the Government Caucus Committee on Natural Resources and Economy; and
- Develop a multi-agency plan that will promote the consistent application of the integrated land use system for exploration and mining in British Columbia and present the plan to the Government Caucus Committee on Natural Resources and Economy.
These efforts have resulted in a number of achievements including: participation in the establishment of the Front Counter office in Kamloops, processing applications for more than 650 exploration projects; and contributing to more than 20 mine development projects. The Ministry also implemented Mineral Titles Online, an award winning internet-based claim registration and maintenance system. This system has resulted in a significant increase in claims registered. B.C.'s geological databases have been rated the best in the world by the Fraser Institute's Survey of the international mining community. The Ministry was also engaged in developing and participating in many land use planning initiatives and workshops.
These accomplishments reflect the Ministry's commitment to the Government's Goals of leading the world in sustainable environmental management and creating more jobs per capita than anywhere else in Canada. In fact, the mining sector is currently forecast to have the fastest growth of any of B.C.'s industrial sectors in 2006. More than 28,000 people are employed in the industry, with an average annual wage of $94,000.
B.C. has a strong regulatory regime which ensures safe and environmentally responsible resource development. Applications for mine exploration and development in B.C. are required to complete extensive and thorough environmental assessment processes that include public and First Nations consultation and input, comprehensive environmental reviews, and a mine closure plan that maintains high standards for clean air, clean water and healthy communities.
The Ministry also focused on the Government Goal relating to being the best educated, most literate jurisdiction on the continent. Mining career and job fairs were held in twenty one communities across B.C. in conjunction with industry and educational institutions. These fairs assist individuals in their search for well paying jobs in local communities. With firm commitments to education and training from both government and industry, we can create long-term opportunities in this growing sector.
Mining is booming in B.C. and its outlook is promising. Government policies that promote exploration combined with a mining sector that is globally competitive, safe and environmentally responsible ensures B.C. maintains its status as a global leader in mineral exploration and development.
The 2005/06 Annual Service Plan Report compares the actual results to the expected results identified in the Ministry's 2005/06 – 2007/08 Service Plan Update. I am accountable for those results as reported.
Honourable Bill Bennett
Minister of State for Mining
June 30, 2006
