COMMENTARY — Mining and rural Canada

Andy Mitchell is member of Parliament for Parry Sound-Muskoka, Ontario, and chairman of the federal Standing Committee on Natural Resources, which is holding hearings on issues related to the development of rural economies in Canada. He wrote the following at the invitation of Keep Mining In Canada, a national grassroots campaign designed to increase awareness of mining issues in this country.

Mining continues to be the lifeblood of many Canadian communities and is a major employer in 150 communities. Many of these are in remote or rural locations.

In 1995, mining-related industries employed 341,000 Canadians and contributed $9.8 billion to the trade balance, accounting for 16% of Canada’s exports. In the same year, 4.3% of this country’s gross domestic product was attributed to activities generated by the four processing stages of the mineral industry.

Not only is Canadian mining a growing industry (non-fuel mineral production in 1995 rose 16.7% over 1994 figures); the sector, along with others such as forestry, energy, fisheries and agriculture, is a major employer in rural areas. This is one reason why the House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources convened a study on the impact of the natural resources sector in such communities. For example, certain regions exist and thrive as a direct result of the economic activity generated by a local mine.

By listening to testimony and seeking information from many sources, the committee will assess the impact of this activity on rural Canada and suggest ways the natural resources sector can contribute further to rural economies.

The committee has begun to hold hearings on this matter in Ottawa and hopes to visit rural and remote regions to hear from citizens. In addition, a final report, including proposed policies for the federal government, will be issued.

Mining is an integral part of Canada’s rural economies, and the Standing Committee on Natural Resources is committed to their ongoing development.