Ref. #2-3736
OTTAWA, ONTARIO (November 20, 2012) – The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, met today with members of the Mining Association of Canada to speak about the benefits of the Harper Government's proposed Northern Jobs and Growth Act.
"The Northern Jobs and Growth Act is an important element of our Government's focus on creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity in the North and across Canada," said Minister Duncan. "This Act will encourage investment and development in Canada's North, which will help Northerners harness the tremendous economic benefits of the region's natural resources."
Canada's North is home to world-class reserves of natural resources including diamonds, gold, silver, tungsten and base metals. Currently, there are more than 25 northern mineral development projects, worth approximately $21 billion, that require regulatory approvals.
The proposed Act includes the Nunavut Planning and Project Assessment Act and the Northwest Territories Surface Rights Board Act as well as amendments to the Yukon Surface Rights Board Act.
"The legislation comes at a critical time for the North, with its promising mineral potential and opportunities for economic development never before seen in the region's history," said Pierre Gratton, MAC's President and CEO. "The new regulatory regime will help to enhance the North's economic competitiveness for mineral investment, while ensuring projects go through a robust assessment and permitting process."
During today's meeting, Minister Duncan committed to continue working with territorial governments and Aboriginal organizations on further improvements to northern regulatory regimes.
Minister's Office
Jan O'Driscoll
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
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