Liberals need plan for mining companies in the North: NDP

NDP MPP and Northern Development and Mines Critic Michael Mantha called on the Minister of Northern Development and Mines during Question Period this morning for better guidelines for mining companies in the North. Northern Superior Resources filed a lawsuit against the Ontario Government in 2013 and the trial started Monday. 

NSR is the fourth mining company to bring legal action against the government since 2009 over the government’s failure to set guidelines on the mining process in Ontario. 

“The failure to get consultations underway demonstrates the misguided priorities of the Liberal government, and is paving the path for future disputes. Will this province provide us with an update on what they have done to create a plan for resource development and jobs in the North?” Mantha asked.

Mantha says inaction of the Liberal government will lead  to further lawsuits and there will be a loss of job opportunities. He also says treating First Nations as partners is key to establishing guidelines on the mining process in the North. 

“If the government continues to mismanage mining developments in the North, we will see the lawsuits pile up and jobs will be lost. I ask again, as I have several times before, will the Minister act now to actually develop a plan for good, value added job creation that treats First Nations as partners?” Mantha asked.