Mining Act Changes Announced

A balanced approach to mining in Ontario.
Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle believes he has achieved that with proposed changes to the Mining Act.
Gravelle calls the Legislation groundbreaking.
He says the changes will modernize the way companies stake their claims to be more respectful of private land owners and aboriginal communities.
Gravelle adds First Nations would have to be notified immediately after a claim is staked.
Prospectors and company’s would be required to advise First Nations of exploration plans on traditional territory.
The Act also includes a dispute-resolution process for First Nations’ issues.
Miners would also be required to take training so they know their obligations under the act before they can get a prospector’s licence.
Gravelle says First Nations, Prospectors and Mining Comany’s will all benefit under the proposed changes which will be introduced in the Legislature Thursday Afternoon.
However, the Act stops short of giving First Nations communities a share of mining revenues.
Gravelle says consultation will continue if the Act get’s through Queen’s Park.