THUNDER BAY – Minister of Northern Development and Mines, Michael Gravelle sat down with NetNewsledger to discuss the state of mining in Ontario following the release of a report from Professor Jack Mintz.
First off, however, the Minister shared that he is doing well in his ongoing battle against cancer. Michael says he is amazed at how well the treatment has gone, and really pleased he as been able to continue working through his treatments. In a region where cancer impacts many people, the Minister said he has heard so many positive messages from people and they really help.
Finding the right balance
“Winning is finding the right balance,” stated Minister Gravelle. “The current mining tax was implemented during a time when exploration in Ontario was lower than anyone wanted it to be”.
“Ontario has, since 2003 opened twenty-three new mines,” shared Gravelle. “Three of those new mines opened in 2012, obviously the taxation program worked”.
Today, Gravelle states, “Taxes are not everything, energy prices, and our climate are other major factors in the decision making process for a mining company”.
“Ontario is open for business, especially the mining business,” continued the Minister.
Minister Gravelle – Reviewing Mining
The Ministry of Northern Development and Mines is working to make sure that Ontario is getting a fair return on the mineral wealth in the province. “We are reviewing the mining taxes,” commented Gravelle.
Today in Ontario, the Minister restated, it is critical to find the right balance. That is the task before the Minister and one that he wants to re-assure both constituents, and mining companies that the department will do.
The report from Professor Mintz is getting a review in the Ministry, and rather than make pre-mature, and less informed comments, the Minister wants to hold back and follow up on the report with a more informed view.
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