http://www.kenoraonline.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=8332&Itemid=160

Convention gets locals talking mining

Written by Brenden Harris on Wednesday, 12 March 2014

Mining in the Ring of Fire continues to be a hot topic in the regionLocal representatives have returned from the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada's (PDAC) International Convention. Kenora MP, and Minister in charge of the Ring of Fire attended the event, along with Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Rickford says while the market conditions aren't ideal at this time, there was enthusiasm at the convention.

"There's a palpable enthusiasm. I was happy to be there with the prime minister for the first time in the 83 year history of it. The prospectors know that there's not a lot going on now, besides some staking of claims," he said.

"We continue to focus on these projects knowing the market right now is not signalling the opening on new mines, per se, but we're very hopeful. Through FedNor we've been working with these companies so that when they're ready to make that leap forward, we'll be there with them," he added.

Meanwhile, Sioux Lookout is look at drawing more companies to the area, and hoping to partner with some in the future. The municipality's economic development officer, Vicki Blanchard was in attendance, and she notes the importance of the convention.

"We need to attract these companies and we need to inspire their investors to invest money in our region. The best way to do that is to look under the ground. We're looking at software right now that may be able to provide us with a geothermal look at what's under the ground and whether or not it's enough to attract them back," she said.

She notes the conversations with the mining companies went well, and says they've already heard interest from a company.

"Before I got back from PDAC, we already had a company call us and they want to do business with us. We're meeting with their geologist this week," she said.

She also notes the proposal for an east-west highway, which would create more access for workers and supplies from across the region.

"There has been more development and discussions around the east-west tie. It's been part of the discussions with the First Nations and the Matawa Tribal Council. It's also been a discussion now with the federal and provincial governments moving forward under the corporation," she said.

Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield also attended the annual event and said he was impressed with the opportunity. He also notes he was encouraged by a meeting with a potential investor in the area. Economic development officer Jennifer Findlay said they were interested in the opportunities, but noted forestry and tourism would remain their top two priorities.For more information:Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada

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