Plan Nord: A Good First Step – Mining Association of Quebec now Waiting for the Mining Development Strategy

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Québec, April 8, 2015 – The Quebec Mining Association (QMA) is pleased that the new version of the Northern Plan recognizes the importance of mining to ensure its success, although few specific policy instruments do be identified at this time due to the development by the Government of its strategic vision of mine development currently underway.

“Without mining, it is an illusion to think that the North can develop to its full capacity. The Plan Nord is clear on this. The strategic vision of the mining development will, we hope to identify concrete steps to realize the full potential of the North, “said Josée Méthot, President and CEO of the QMA. “Many projects are under development and it is important that the deployment conditions are facilitative for new mines are born in the territory of the Plan Nord. That is why we have always advocated that the Plan Nord is adapted to the specificities of the mining operations in the North. »

In addition to high production costs, mining companies in Northern Québec must deal with the remoteness of their markets, a great need for infrastructure and energy supply is very little room for maneuver. “The government seems to have understood the difficulties faced by mining companies and we now hope that the actions that pose meet the challenges and issues we face,” said Ms. Méthot.

Remains a concern for the QMA, or the government’s commitment to withdraw 50% of the Plan Nord territory to all industrial activities by 2035. The Association questioned on this point, since it considers that significant work characterization and acquisition of knowledge is essential at before making any protection whatsoever. According to her, it is important not to restrict all access to this rich territory and this access does not pass through the protection of 50% of it. Also, do not forget that the exploration, often incorporating environmental characterization studies, carried out mainly by the mining industry, contribute greatly to improve this knowledge we have of Northern Quebec. “The Association advocates the qualitative approach to the quantitative and hopes that the Government will also see the importance of this distinction. Do not protect an area, but what needs to be protected. It is important to give a chance to learn about the wealth of the North before freezing the territory forever, “said Josée Méthot.

About the Quebec Mining Association
Founded in 1936, the Quebec Mining Association (QMA) acts as a proactive voice for mining companies in production, exploration and processing, mining contractors, mining companies development, as well as providers, institutions, nonprofit organizations and other partners in the mining sector. Proud of 45,000 quality jobs and mining investment of $ 4.6 billion that the mining industry has generated in Quebec over the past year, the QMA’s mission is to promote, support and develop Quebec’s mineral industry committed, responsible and innovative.

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