PRINCE GEORGE – The 19th annual BC Natural Resources Forum kicked off once again, albeit virtually.
The theme to Day One looked at some of the challenges facing future investment and some of the biggest challenges facing all of the sectors.
“In mining right now, it’s become really challenging right now,” says Michael Goehring, President and CEO of the Mining Association of British Columbia. “Permitting. It’s not predictable. It’s not timely. It’s very complex. And it takes an inordinate amount of effort to get things done.”
The CEO of the Council of Forest Industries echoed that sentiment, saying that uncertainty around permitting is driving investment out of the province, as is the sudden change in policy.
“What would really help is having a balanced approach to forest policy modernization that’s underway here,” says Susan Yurkovich. “We need a fact-based approach and it’s only going to be informed with good science and traditional knowledge and making sure we have an inclusive process. Which means having everyone at the table.”
Another challenge facing all facets of the resource sector is labour. A quick look at Teck Resources’ job listing and there are nearly 150 posting for jobs around the world, but predominantly in Western Canada.
“Who is going to fill the jobs of tomorrow?” asks Goehring. “We’ve been doing a lot of work in mining to look at the new generation.” He says too many young people think you have to be a tradesperson to work in the resource sector. Not at all. In fact, the resource sector is becoming more and more high-tech over the year.
Tomorrow’s presentation revolves around “Strengthening Communities through Partnership” and “Changing Mines.”
