**ONTARIO GOVERNMENT NEWS RELEASE**


Ontario’s Government for the People is creating a special Mining Working Group focused on reducing red tape and attracting major new investments.

Premier Doug Ford and Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines, were at the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) annual mining convention to announce the establishment of the group, which held its inaugural meeting today.

“Ontario’s mining sector drives so much of the province’s growth,” said Ford. “We need to cut red tape so we can attract global investment, expand the industry and create more and better jobs in Ontario.”

The group, chaired by Minister Rickford, brings together industry representatives that reflect the diversity and strength of the province’s mining sector. They include accomplished leaders from mining and exploration companies, prospectors and Indigenous business organizations.

Members will provide the province with input on important issues affecting the minerals sector, while identifying opportunities to ensure future growth, competitiveness and prosperity.

“For too long, Ontario’s minerals sector has been mired in lengthy regulatory approvals and other barriers to investment,” said Rickford. “By convening this working group of industry leaders, our government is sending a strong signal to the world that Ontario’s mining industry is open for business and open for jobs.”

Filed under: Local News