LETTER TO THE EDITOR — Mines merger in B.C. to increase efficiency

As minister responsible for energy and mining in British Columbia, I want to clarify comments made in your editorial (“Now you see it . . .” in T.N.M., April 1/96) regarding the merger of the former Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources with the Ministry of Employment and Investment.

At the same time, I want to reassure British Columbians and the investment community that government values the energy and mining industries as major contributors to the provincial economy. Our commitment to these resource sectors is demonstrated by the fact that 1995 mineral production is valued at approximately $3.48 billion — the highest in more than 30 years; investment in mineral exploration is expected to increase to $123.5 million in 1996 from $83.45 in 1995. As well, while gas prices have been low, sales for drilling rights have remained constant.

Integrating the ministries was part of a provincial realignment to make government smaller and more efficient, eliminating overlap and duplication.

Although a merger has occurred, the staff of the Energy and Minerals division is still intact and continues to carry out business as usual.

The integration of ministries is a reflection of the priority our natural resources sector — particularly, in this case, the mineral and energy sectors — play in the province’s economic growth. The amalgamation ensures greater co-ordination between these key economic activities to create jobs and encourage investment to the province.

Further, the amalgamation provides significant opportunities for having joint use of policy in the development of new mines, the use of energy resources and electricity — all in the context of pursuing investments and job creation in B.C.’s economy. Mining and mineral proponents now deal with one agency instead of two, allowing a greater focus on creating jobs in the mining sector.

You were correct to point out that historically energy, mining and petroleum resources sectors have had a separate structure as a ministry within government. However, you failed to convey that today, the mining and energy sectors, by being merged with the Ministry of Employment and Investment, is now a key component of the government’s foremost economic development body.

This elevation indicates government’s recognition of the importance of, and commitment to, the development of the energy and mining industries.

The Energy and Minerals division within the Ministry of Employment and Investment has an enhanced role in economic and export development. We will continue to work in partnership with the energy and mining sectors in these areas to create secure, well-paying jobs and foster investment in these resources.

Dan Miller

British Columbia, Minister of Employment and Investment