Last August, concerns were raised in The Northern Miner about this government’s support for regulation of geoscientists in Ontario. I would like to take the time to update your readers on this issue.
On February 2, I had the pleasure of attending the release of the final report of the Toronto Stock Exchange/Ontario Securities Commission Mining Standards Task Force. A key recommendation in this report is that future stock exchange listings for mineral exploration and development be supported by technical documentation signed off by a “Qualified Person.” This Qualified Person is to be responsible for all scientific and technical matters relating to the design, implementation and assessment of a mineral exploration or development program, and is to belong to a self-regulating professional association with the authority to govern and discipline its members.
Six provinces already meet this standard, while others have legislation pending. As one of the last provinces to establish a regulation process for geoscientists, Ontario must take immediate action. This is an impediment to mining investment, which, I’m pleased to inform you, my ministry is prepared to address.
The government fully supports the development of a regulatory body for Ontario geoscientists. Ministry staff will be helping the Association of Geoscientists of Ontario conduct further consultations with those affected by the issue. We are committed to ensuring Ontario retain its pre-eminent position in the mining sector.
Anyone interested in providing input into this process is invited to contact Cam Baker, senior manager of Ontario Geological Survey sedimentary geoscience, at (705) 670-5902.
Chris Hodgson
Minister of Northern Development and Mines
Queen’s Park, Toronto
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