COMMENTARY — Policy-makers learn the ropes

Colleen Beaumier of Brampton, Ont., is a Liberal member of parliament and a member of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade.

She has written the following article at the request of Keep Mining In Canada, a grassroots campaign designed to increase awareness of the importance of mining in this country.

As policymakers, members of parliament (MPs) are required to have a clear understanding of the varied and complicated issues that cross their desks each day. This summer, I took part in two initiatives that broadened my knowledge and understanding of the Canadian mining industry.

Few urban MPs get the opportunity to see an operating mine. During the summer recess, Keep Mining In Canada organized tours of mines in British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec. I joined several of my elected colleagues to participate in a tour of Inco’s Creighton nickel-copper mine. We were tremendously impressed by what we saw — the immensity of the operation, Inco’s use of advanced technology, and the extent to which environmental protection is built into every phase of the mine’s operation. The tour’s participants left Sudbury with a better understanding of how Canadian mining companies operate today.

In addition, Keep Mining In Canada’s Adopt-an-MP program has put urban MPs in touch with mining people. Through the program, participating mine managers and mayors of mining communities are paired with an urban MP. Those in the mining community act as contacts and regularly update “adopted” MPs on the issues that face the minerals sector. Our partners also inform us about the latest technological developments and environmental practices. My contact, Bruce Jeffery from Cyprus Canada in Timmins, Ont., continues to tell me how Ottawa’s government activities are received in mining communities.

This year, MPs will have another opportunity to meet mining people from across the country. On Nov. 20, dozens of mining delegates will converge on Parliament Hill in Ottawa for Keep Mining In Canada’s second annual Lobby Day. I have already set aside time in order to meet with delegates to discuss issues affecting their livelihoods and communities. Together, we can make progress towards ensuring a robust future for mining in Canada.

Initiatives such as Keep Mining In Canada’s mine tours, Adopt-an-MP program and Lobby Day give policymakers a better understanding of the issues affecting the industry, and help them make informed decisions that will improve the investment climate for mining in Canada.