Ontario's mineral development strategy getting an overhaul

Superior Morning3:38Mineral Development Strategy

The Minister of Northern Development and Mines is looking for public input on the province's mineral development strategy.

The Minister of Northern Development and Mines is looking for public input on the province's mineral development strategy.

Michael Gravelle said the ministry is hosting a series of open houses including one Wednesday night in Thunder Bay to gather suggestions from people on everything from raising capital to the use of technology.

We're seeing mines going deeper into the ground and there are challenges with that, he said.

There are technologies [that can help] improve the discovery rates.

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Gravellesaid the mineral development strategy hasn't been revised since 2006. Meetings have already been held this week inKenoraand Red Lake.

Gravellesaid he'd like to hear from people on the issue of raising capital for prospecting and exploration.

We know it's been very challenging for the junior exploration sector particularly over the last couple of years, so the best advice we can get on that will be part of what we're seeking, he said.

We want to continue to make our production as competitive as possible.

Tonight's meeting in Thunder Bay gets underway at 6:30 p.m. at the Valhalla.

Ontario mineral development strategy discussion paper.