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NEWS RELEASE | |
For Immediate Release 2020EMPR0022-001117 June 22, 2020 |
Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources |
Mines Act updates to improve permitting, regulation in B.C. | |
VICTORIA – More effective mines permitting and better protection of workers, the environment and the public are among proposed updates to the Mines Act. “With the changes we are bringing forward today, our government continues to act on the unanimous recommendations of the Mining Jobs Task Force to strengthen B.C.’s mining sector and improve the permitting process,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy Mines and Petroleum Resources. “The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced that health and safety must remain a top priority as we continue to build a strong economic recovery that works for people.” If passed, the legislation will create a new chief permitting officer position, distinct from the chief inspector of mines. The chief permitting officer will ensure the mine permitting process is efficient and effective. The chief inspector will retain responsibility for health, safety and enforcement. The legislation will further strengthen government’s ability to hold mines accountable. These changes include strengthening investigation authorities, clarifying offence provisions and increasing the limitation period from three to five years in both the Mines Act and the Environmental Management Act. The proposed changes will also formalize the creation of the Mine Audits and Effectiveness Unit, led by a chief auditor. This unit will conduct audits to ensure mining regulation in B.C. is effective and aligned with global best practices. The proposed changes were informed by lessons learned from the Mount Polley disaster, recommendations from the Office of the Auditor General and the Mining Jobs Task Force, consultation with stakeholders and input received during the 2019 public comment period on the proposed changes to the Mines Act. A more efficient and effective permitting process, strengthened regulatory oversight and the creation of an audit function will support quality economic growth for British Columbians while ensuring mining is conducted safely and responsibly. Quick Facts:
Learn More: The Mines Audit and Effectiveness Unit has more information available on its web page: The What We Heard report following the Mines Act public review and comment period is available online: The Mining Jobs Task Force report and recommendations are available online: A backgrounder follows. |
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Contact: | |
Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Media Relations 250 952-0628 |
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BACKGROUNDER | |
For Immediate Release 2020EMPR0022-001117 June 22, 2020 |
Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources |
Increased oversight, efficiency possible with Mines Act updates | |
Proposed changes to the Mines Act will separate regulatory accountabilities, establish the audit function for the ministry and strengthen compliance and enforcement. Specifically, the proposed amendments include: New chief permitting officer
New audit function
Compliance and enforcement enhancements
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Contact: | |
Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Media Relations 250 952-0628 |