The Ontario Mining Association members have some concerns with respect to Bill 173, an Act to amend the Mining Act and Bill 191, with respect to land use planning and protection of the Far North.
“The Aboriginal consultation provisions in Bill 173 needs to be clear, transparent and consistent with current case law, which states the government has the primary duty, with some exceptions, to consult with Aboriginal communities," OMA president Chris Hodgson states.
As well the association is also asking the government for greater clarity in mine closure plans consultation rules, and the development of tribunals to handle disputes which may arise. The OMA states it is supportive of a deeper partnership with Aboriginal communities in land use planning but has some concerns about the lack of economic targets in the bill, and the funding capacity for land use planning.
"The bill itself, is strong on conservation targets, but nonexistent on development targets," said Hodgson. "If we are to respect the integrity of the Premier´s words, and ensure the wellbeing of the Far North communities, development targets need to be included in the legislation. Why not a target of 10 new mines in the next 10 years?"
.jpeg;w=120;h=80;mode=crop)
