Regulatory Effectiveness

 

Building and operating mines is complex and so too is understanding the regulatory environment the industry is subject to.  The Canadian mining industry is governed by dozens of federal, provincial and territorial acts and regulations across a broad spectrum of subject matter. While regulating mining activity is primarily the responsibility of the provinces, there are many aspects that require approval from several federal government departments.

 

From the proposal, development and operational phases through to closure, mining companies must adhere to a number of federal acts and regulations. To deal with the complexity of the federal regulatory environment, MAC monitors and assists our members with such legislation as:

 

A robust and efficient federal regulatory system is integral to the success of the industry and Canada’s ability to attract mining investment. MAC tracks relevant legislation, monitors emerging regulatory issues, and participates in policy development so that industry perspectives are adequately represented.

 

In 2012, significant legislative changes were made, including introducing a new Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, changes to the Fisheries Act and Navigable Waters Protection Act, and an announcement of a review of the Metal Mining Effluent Regulations. MAC is currently promoting the mining industry’s needs at the federal level for a reasonable, timely and efficient environmental assessment and permitting process, as well as federal-provincial coordination and a smooth implementation of the above-mentioned legislative changes.