Proposed amendments could boost exploration in Manitoba

Amendments to the Mines and Minerals Act, being considered by the Manitoba legislature, would clarify regulations governing the minerals industry and provide stability of land tenure.

One such amendment would replace both types of exploration permits with a mineral exploration licence. These licences would be more accessible to small companies and prospectors.

Other amendments are as follows:

q the elimination of the need for an airborne survey licence;

q the redefinition of a “quarry mineral” to exclude diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds in order to clarify regulations for diamond exploration in the province;

q a means to correct staking errors; and

q the redefinition of “mineral” to include mine tailings (designed to make companies responsible for their operations).

“These changes are intended to facilitate mineral exploration in Manitoba and to stimulate exploration among smaller prospectors,” says MaryAnn Mihychuk, Manitoba’s mines minister. “These changes also reflect the changing nature of the minerals industry in Manitoba, including our recent emphasis on diamonds and the need to clarify ownership of mine tailings.”