Veto rights for FNs

May 24, 2016 MaryAnn Mihychuk

Hello Members:

Various articles have been published lately on ‘veto rights for FNs’ that have direct implications to our industry. I have had some of you speak out on this, even directly with the Federal Government, with no response. I have attached one article below from May 12, in the Globe and Mail and here is a link to another.

We, as MPDA members, have been waiting for a verdict on the ownership of mineral rights in our province. Are they Crown-owned, therefore owned by all of us, or owned by certain FN bands who have jurisdiction? If owned by a FN band or group – who will issue our claims or MELs? Will the government do this for FN bands or will the FN bands have to issue the claims and administer the Mining Act? Lots of confusion and uncertainty in our province which has been scaring away mining development.

Also, Honourable Cliff Cullen, the minister for Mines had his mandate letter recently published (attached) from Premier Pallister which makes no mention of mining. As predicted, moving the mining portfolio into a much larger department will bury mining issues under the many other issues that will appear. Bad news for mining. On a brighter note, MEAP and MPAP have been renewed by the new government for another three years. Wonderful news for those of you who have received funding but can’t get work permits issued…

A MPDA member sent along Yukon’s preliminary report on recommendations for map staking (below). Some or the commentary may be of interest to you.