Yukon government provides support for mining industry, sets long-term vision
Press Release
November 17, 2014
WHITEHORSE—Energy, Mines and Resources Minister Scott Kent spoke at the Yukon Geoscience Forum about the initiation of strategy to guide long-term development of the mining industry. He also declared two avenues of direct support for the mineral exploration industry.
“The Yukon government is embarking on a mineral development strategy. The intention is to guide our vision for Yukon’s mining industry for the long term,” Kent announced.
The strategy, which will be complete in a year, builds on work already underway and covers business climate, regulatory streamlining, infrastructure, First Nation engagement, environmental stewardship and workforce training.
The two avenues of direct support for prospectors are:
- A new double-credit for the 2015 calendar year allows claimholders to file for twice the value of work done on their claim.
- The Yukon government will again extend an enhanced $1.4 million contribution to the Yukon Mineral Exploration Program (YMEP) for the 2015/16 fiscal year.
“The combination of a clear mineral development strategy along with direct support for industry will help to reposition Yukon at the forefront of mining worldwide,” Kent added.
YMEP is the oldest continuing prospectors’ assistance program in Canada. For the 2014/15 year, a $1.4 million program is supporting 51 exploration projects and has leveraged an estimated $2.1 million in industry investment.
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Contact:
Elaine Schiman
Cabinet Communications
867-633-7961
elaine.schiman@gov.yk.ca
Carrie Meyer
Communications, Energy, Mines & Resources
867-667-5809
carrie.meyer@gov.yk.ca
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