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Mines Act

Proposed changes to Mines Act aimed at improving permitting and worker protection

Jun 23, 2020 | 6:00 AM

VICTORIA—There are several proposed updates to the Mines Act to ensure more effective mines permitting and better protection of workers, the environment and the public.

The Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources announced the proposed updates to the Mines Act yesterday (June 22.)

“With the changes we are bringing forward today (June 22), our government continues to act on the unanimous recommendations of the Mining Jobs Task Force to strengthen B.C.’s mining sector and improve the permitting process.”—Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy Mines and Petroleum Resources

The legislation, if passed, would create a new chief permitting officer position, separate from the chief inspector of mines. The chief permitting officer would ensure the mine permitting process is efficient and effective, while the chief inspector would retain responsibility for health, safety and enforcement.

The changes would also include strengthening investigation authorities, clarifying offence provisions and increasing the limitation period from three to five years in both the Mines Act and the Environmental Management Act—further strengthening government’s ability to hold mines accountable.

The proposed changes will also formalize the creation of the Mine Audits and Effectiveness Unit, led by a chief auditor. This unit will conduct audits to ensure mining regulation in B.C. is effective and aligned with global best practices.