Concerns regarding recommendations
Vancouver, B.C., Canada – The Association for Mineral Exploration (AME) has concerns regarding today’s release of the final report of the review of professional reliance in natural resource decision-making. The report, released by B.C. Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy George Heyman, follows a review launched last October of the governance of associations that oversee agrologists, technologists, technicians, biologists, engineers, geoscientists and forest professionals as well as the involvement of qualified professionals in government’s resource management decisions.
“We are concerned that the report released today does not reflect the scope of the review that we felt we were being consulted on,” says Ms. Edie Thome, President & CEO of AME. “In fact, the recommendations are largely focused on broad-sweeping changes to 28 regulatory regimes that go well beyond governance improvements, which we believed to be the focus of the engagement. We are hopeful that the government implements only recommendations that allow for continual improvement in the oversight of qualified professionals and their governing associations, and in a way that does not adversely affect, but builds on the current standards already in practice in British Columbia. We are also concerned that what appears to be an ad hoc regulatory review has evolved separately from other ambitious initiatives directed toward natural resource management where the government has asked for our input – including those related to environmental assessment revitalization and wildlife management – that will also require new legislation.”
“The release of today’s report raises questions about the transparency with which the government is consulting with its citizens while it works to further protect the public interest,” says Dr. ‘Lyn Anglin, Chair of AME. “We urge the government to limit its scope to recommendations related to professional reliance that will provide both public and investor confidence and allow our members to explore for and develop the minerals and metals that society needs in achieving a low-carbon future.”
About AME:
AME is the lead association for the mineral exploration and development industry based in British Columbia. Established in 1912, AME represents, advocates and promotes the interests of thousands of members who are engaged in mineral exploration and development in B.C. and throughout the world. AME encourages a safe, economically strong and environmentally responsible industry by providing clear initiatives, policies, events and tools to support its membership.
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Media Contact:
Tracey Sexton
Director, Communications & Corporate Affairs, AME
604.630.3919