NEWS RELEASE: MANITOBA COMMITS TO SHARE UP TO 25 PER CENT OF MINING TAXES ON NEW MINES WITH INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES

January 15, 2016 – Minister’s Mining Advisory Council Shows Results of Co-operative Relationships: Minister Chomiak

Manitoba is committing to share up to 25 per cent of mining taxes on new mines with Indigenous communities, Mineral Resources Minister Dave Chomiak announced today.

“Indigenous communities that want to participate in the mineral resources industry will be partners every step of the way as new mines are brought on line and they will share in the benefits of resource development,” said Minister Chomiak. “There will be new training opportunities, good jobs, revenue sharing and a range of social and economic benefits for Indigenous communities. This will also send an important message to those who want to invest in Manitoba’s mining sector that we’re open for business.”

The announcement is part of a number of results out of the Minister’s Mining Advisory Council (MMAC), which was formed in 2013 to bring leadership from Manitoba, First Nations and industry together to strengthen Manitoba’s investment climate, and develop a collaborative decision-making process to improve Indigenous participation throughout the mining cycle.

“The work of the advisory council has already developed meaningful consultation processes, is building stronger, more respectful relationships with First Nation communities and has begun to increase First Nation decision-making,” said Chief Ron Evans, Norway House Cree Nation, and co-chair of the MMAC. “Being at the table has ensured a strong voice for our communities, employment opportunities and direct participation in economic development by our people.”

Manitoba’s commitment to revenue sharing is in addition to continued support of the council and the newly established First Nation Mining Economic Development Corporation. Also highlighted is the Mining Association of Manitoba’s release of new Guidelines for Mineral Exploration in Manitobaand the Aboriginal Engagement Handbook, which provides guidance to industry and First Nations throughout the various stages of the mining cycle. These publications can be found at www.mines.ca/publication.php or by calling the Mining Association of Manitoba at 204-989-1890.

“Supporting Manitoba to become a top jurisdiction for mining and mineral exploration will benefit us all,” said Rob Winton, co-chair, MMAC. “Forums such as this have helped significantly improve the mutual understanding of our issues and opportunities, making it clear that together, we are better.”

Mining is the second-largest primary resource sector in Manitoba and one of the largest employers of Indigenous people in the north. In 2014, the province’s combined value of mineral production for metals and industrial minerals exceeded $1.3 billion and generated more than 3,200 Manitoba jobs.

The province’s six mines produce 100 per cent of Canada’s cesium, 11.9 per cent of Canada’s nickel, 23.6 per cent of Canada’s zinc, 5.5 per cent of Canada’s copper, 2.4 per cent of Canada’s gold and 5.6 per cent of Canada’s silver.

Manitoba is also in early discussions with the Manitoba Metis Federation regarding engaging Métis participation in the mining industry, Minister Chomiak noted.

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