http://wawa-news.com/2015/12/12/statement-on-the-announcement-of-a-mining-development-strategy-by-ontario-ndp-northern-development-mines-critic-michael-mantha/

Statement on the announcement of a Mining Development Strategy by Ontario NDP Northern Development & Mines Critic Michael Mantha

“As my party’s critic for Northern Development and Mines I’m left seriously wondering if the Wynne Liberal government has any interest at all in growing and supporting the mining industry in the province.

The Auditor-General’s damning report made clear that there wasn’t any movement on the Ring of Fire development from this government. This strategy document still doesn’t offer any way forward on this ‘once in a lifetime’ deposit. The Ring of Fire, in fact, is barely mentioned.

It’s important that the government is finally recognizing the challenges of the junior mining sector in the province. However, does the Minister really think that $5 million dollars for a Junior Exploration Assistance Program – where development of a single site can take years and tens of millions of dollars – is enough help to an industry worth $11 billion to this province, and thousands of jobs, to stay competitive as this industry faces mounting challenges, not just here, but across the globe? Ontarians deserve a plan that will create good jobs, build infrastructure, reduce the high price of electricity and work with First Nations.

No one would dispute these 10 points raised in the government’s Mineral Development Strategy; they are stating the obvious. However, for the long-term success of the mining sector the government is lacking vision and an engaging framework to attract global investment which will bring all stakeholders to the table.”