Geoscientists provided with ethics code

Regulations under the Professional Geoscientists Act of Ontario, setting out licensing criteria and a code of ethics, are now in effect.

The act, passed in June 2000, established the new Association of Professional Geoscientists of Ontario (APGO) and formally recognized geology and geophysics as self-regulating professions. Those who meet the qualifications and abide by the code of ethics will be formally recognized as professional geoscientists.

Northern Development and Mines Minister Dan Newman says the regulations “support a strong and healthy mining investment climate that favours exploration and job creation in Ontario’s mining industry.”

The regulations define different classes of licensure, and the code of ethics defines members’ professional obligations, duties and responsibilities.

In its March 12-16 issue, The Northern Miner reported that the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada was providing the APGO with office space; however, that information was outdated. The APGO is now using office space provided by consulting firm Watts, Griffis & McOuat in downtown Toronto.