Kenora-Rainy River MPP Greg Rickford believes supporting mining projects in the North is the way to economic growth for the region.
Provincial politicians recently returned to Queen’s Park and one thing that Kenora-Rainy River MPP and Minister of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry, Greg Rickford, hit on during his time to speak was the importance of mining projects in the North, especially for projects in remote First Nation communities.
“Good news. They've put positive pressure on this government to put additional resources into enhancing those municipalities and Indigenous Communities so they are well-positioned to experience growth and economic prosperity.”
Rickford listed off a number of mines that have created thousands of jobs in the North, including 1,500 jobs in the Red Lake area through Evolution Mining and Pure Gold Mining, 800 jobs at the Newmont Gold mine near Opapamiskan Lake, as well as future jobs through Goliath Gold’s Treasury Metals project near Dryden.
“But some bad news,” adds Rickford. “Every time we ask for additional economic resources and/or regulatory changes, the NDP votes against them. They said no to growth and prosperity in the North.”
Rickford adds the current provincial government has continued to invest heavily in the mining industry as they hope to boost the economic opportunities for remote communities, while also looking to provide more job opportunities for Ontarians.
“There are so many good things going on in Northern Ontario, and Indigenous Communities are becoming an essential part of those environmental businesses and economic opportunities,” finished Rickford.
Just last year, Rickford said their provincial strategy aims to transition to a low-carbon-based economy in Canada and globally, with the ability to produce and manufacture nickel, copper, cobalt and platinum group elements.
He previously said that because of this strategy, Ontario could become a major producer of electric vehicles, stainless steel products, aerospace and defence electronics and much more.