Editor:
The government recently reorganized the resource ministries, which cost several million dollars.
However, this was a beneficial undertaking that enhances the opportunities for improved, well-coordinated resource management throughout B.C.
Unfortunately, the government has repeatedly stated that the main reason for such a move was not improved resource management but rather to better serve their clients with a streamlined resource allocation process.
Two specific concerns are:
The government recently indicated it is “directing $24 million to natural resource ministries to reduce the time it takes for businesses wanting to invest in natural resource development to get decisions on approvals and permits.”
This is a huge amount that B.C. doesn’t have and why is it necessary?
The resource ministry is already streamlined and quite efficient. One could understand spending an additional $1 to $2 million to complete the transition process but not $24 million.
Also, a “streamlined” resource allocation process significantly reduces the chances for public review and comment and increases the chances of a repeat of the Boss Power fiasco especially relative to water allocations for projects such as IPPs, fracking, snow-making, golf courses, condo development, new mines etc.
The second concern is that the Mining Act vests too much power in the mining industry and it often overrides other legislation such as FRPA (Forest and Range Protection Act).
The modus operandi for extracting natural resources in B.C. should be the same for all players. The 11 FRPA principles of resource management should apply to and be upheld by all, not just select segments of the resource sector.
Under the Mining Act, mining entities can and do waste merchantable trees, destroy forest plantations, and expose mineral soil via skid trails and access roads without rehabilitating them.
Compliance and enforcement officers have no authority to restrict or mitigate such activities.
Steve Thomson’s October newsletter states that compliance changes, “will make it easier for compliance and enforcement officers to hold offenders accountable for violating natural resource legislation.”
Will this new legislation meaningfully change the way our natural resources, especially those related to mining, are managed?
I sincerely hope so.
Fred Marshall, Midway