Media Statement on the BC Auditor General’s Oversight of Major Mines Report
Vancouver, BC – Michael Goehring, President and CEO of the Mining Association of British Columbia (MABC) made the following statement on the Office of the Auditor General of British Columbia’s (OAG) independent report Oversight of Major Mines: Policies and Procedures to Address Environmental Risks:
“The report confirms the provincial government made appropriate adjustments to policies and procedures governing major mines since the 2016 OAG audit.
“BC’s mining laws have undergone significant changes in recent years, including a new Mines Act, a revised Health, Safety and Reclamation Code, new water quality guidelines and ongoing monitoring. A new interim reclamation security bonding policy was also announced earlier this year.
“It is important to note BC’s mining laws, regulations and enforcement mechanisms are constantly evolving to incorporate new technologies and emerging best practices. British Columbia has a standing committee that meets regularly to ensure BC’s mining laws are consistent with world leading standards for environmental protection, health and safety, and post-closure reclamation.
“MABC supports the recent changes, and government’s work to ensure BC’s permitting and authorizations processes provide the health, safety and environmental protection British Columbians expect.”
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About the Mining Association of British Columbia:
MABC is the voice of the British Columbia’s steelmaking coal, metal and mineral producers, smelters, and advanced development companies. Our industry benefits all British Columbians and supports more than 35,000 jobs and over 3,700 small, medium, and indigenous affiliated businesses in every corner of the province through an annual spend of nearly $3 billion on goods and services. Our members’ products have among the lowest carbon footprints globally and are helping the world transition to a cleaner, low-carbon future; safely, responsibly, and sustainably.
For more information
Matt MacInnis
mmacinnis@mining.bc.ca
778-628-1703