SUCCESSFUL MINES MINISTERS MEETING CONCLUDES IN SASKATOON

Released on September 8, 2008

Sustained global demand for minerals provided the backdrop for the first conference that Saskatchewan has hosted in 13 years of mines ministers from governments across Canada.

"Mining companies across Canada are writing compelling stories of success as they build our economy and create prosperity for our citizens," Conference Host and Saskatchewan Energy and Resources Minister Bill Boyd said. "Our discussions at this conference have addressed the challenges and opportunities for the mining sector as it seeks to make an even greater contribution to our nation."

This year's conference had a broad theme of "social licence". Boyd said resource companies as well as governments are now increasingly aware of the environmental and social considerations that factor into investment decisions on major resource projects.

Boyd noted that during their meeting the ministers discussed, and received reports on, key issues related to the long-term success of the mining sector. These included such topics as Aboriginal engagement and participation, human resources, regulatory performance improvement and research and innovation.

"Key to our discussions was the recognition that the mining and industry sectors along with governments need to encourage and engage Aboriginal peoples and communities in a manner that is inclusive, transparent and characterized by mutual respect," Boyd said.

The ministers recognized that the long-term prosperity of the mining and energy sectors depends on addressing labour shortages and working with industry and other partners to address these issues on a priority and ongoing basis.

The ministers underscored the importance of continued collaboration between regulatory agencies to ensure high-quality and timely environmental assessments to promote sustainability. They also noted the importance of increasing collaboration on research and innovation with industry, governments and academic institutions to support industry competitiveness.

Finally, ministers discussed the importance of Canadian companies working to secure a social license for mineral development, at home and abroad, by building their capacity to meet the social, economic and environmental expectations of their host communities.

"Speaking for Saskatchewan, we are committed to working co-operatively with our colleagues across the country in government, industry, and the research and academic communities to build upon the incredible successes of our various mining sectors," Boyd said. "Mining contributes greatly to the well-being of Canadians and the Canadian economy. By all of us working together, we will see Canada recognized as a world leader in innovative, sustainable and socially responsible mining."

Mining and exploration provide jobs and bring economic and social benefits in every province and territory, including many remote and Aboriginal communities. More than 360,000 people are employed in the mining and mineral processing industries. Mineral production exceeds $40 billion per year, and there are over 150 mining-reliant communities across the country.

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For more information, contact:

Bob Ellis
Saskatchewan Energy and Resources
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1691
Cell: 306-539-6948