LETTERS TO THE EDITOR — Whitehorse Mining Initiative needs

The letter “Time to start fighting back” from Michael Leahy (T.N.M., Apr. 19/93) contains misplaced criticism of the Whitehorse Mining Initiative. One can understand and sympathize with Leahy’s frustration at the frequent loss of public policy and public affairs battles by the Canadian mining industry. But the fact that past tactics have been unsuccessful is a good reason for changing them.

When necessary, there is a place for confrontation and court action. In today’s society, heavily swayed by interest-group politics, there must also be a place for opening a dialogue with environmental and aboriginal groups in order to obtain their support for our legitimate goals.

The Initiative has clear objectives and it represents a serious and concerted attempt to come to grips with some of the most pressing issues the industry is facing, including those related to land use and security of title. It is supported by the members of all major industry associations in Canada. They cannot all be wrong.

As a new venture, the outcome of the Initiative is unpredictable. But all indications are that it has a good chance of succeeding. I believe some new thinking is needed. The Initiative deserves to be supported. George Miller,

President

Mining Association of Canada

Ottawa