Premier urges mining companies to market abroad

Ontario Premier Bob Rae urged Canadian mining companies to increase their foreign exposure, at a recent “Meet the Miners” reception at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto.

Rae said that while his government will make every attempt to foster an attractive investment climate in Ontario, miners should be marketing their skills internationally. He stressed that solutions to environmental problems are especially needed in Eastern Europe.

Ontario’s regulatory environment has “too much duplication” and will change for the better this year, he added.

Mines Minister Shelley Martel was on hand to outline new incentives for the industry, including breaks for juniors that issue flow-through shares and tax relief on mine closure funds.

She was praised by both Rae and Patrick Reid, president of the Ontario Mining Association (OMA), for her energy and quick response to industry concerns. Meet the Miners, sponsored by the OMA, is an opportunity for government and industry representatives to mingle. The reception is held every year during the province’s Mining Week.