The provincial government has taken a step toward the goal of unlocking the potential of New Brunswick’s mining sector.
A framework for developing a comprehensive minerals strategy was released Monday at the 50th annual Exploration, Mining and Petroleum Conference in Fredericton.
Natural Resources Minister John Herron said mineral resources are essential to New Brunswick’s economy and daily life.
“Consulting and working with First Nations, stakeholders and sector participants, our strategy will be agile, transparent and environmentally responsible, and will attract investment in mineral development,” Herron said.
The framework is built on five pillars:
- streamlining regulatory and permitting processes
- promoting awareness
- meaningful Indigenous participation
- enhancing investment environment
- planning for local benefits
The pillars are meant to help establish New Brunswick as a responsible and competitive jurisdiction for mineral resource development, signal the province is open for business, and support long-term sustainability of the sector.
Herron said upcoming legislative and regulatory changes will ensure processes for investors are rigorous, not onerous, but also ensure proponents are tested at every step.
The full strategy is expected to be ready by the spring.
