May 15, 2006
Members Statements
MINING IN B.C.

           R. Cantelon: British Columbia has a rich history of mining, particularly on Vancouver Island. My riding of Nanaimo benefited immensely by the hard work done by miners, and the people who made up the industry played a key role in the development of the mid-Island.

           Some may think the time for mining has passed. That's simply not true. In our world today mining continues to play a vital role, from computers to toothpaste to pacemakers. The extraction of these resources is needed to provide the services and the lifestyle we want. As a society we may not realize it, but mining keeps us going and growing.

           There are old stereotypes, however, about mining being unsafe — stereotypes that seem to die hard. The facts show something different. Even though we've increased mining activity, the sector has been the safest industry in British Columbia eight out of the last ten years, and over the last ten years the accident rate has dropped by 85 percent. The Hillsborough development group, mining on north Vancouver Island, just yesterday won an award for safety.

           What hasn't changed is the nature of the industry. It's still dynamic, it's still entrepreneurial, and the companies understand that they must also earn their social licence.

           Here on Vancouver Island, Polaris Minerals has been leading the way in bringing communities and first nations together for the benefit of everyone. The company is developing two aggregate operations, one near Port McNeill and one near Port Alberni. In both cases they've engaged first nations and have taken them on as partners in the venture. The template they have developed is a model for how the industry must now earn its social licence along with its mine licence. They're doing it right, and everyone will benefit from the inclusive approach they've taken.

           This is Mining Week in B.C. The industry has offered much in the past in making B.C. what it is. I ask the House to pay tribute to this industry that is alive, growing and ready to make an even larger contribution.