Québec City, September 2, 2020 – The Québec Mining Association welcomes the publication of the new Regulation respecting the regulatory scheme applying to activities on the basis of their environmental impact (known in French as the “REAFIE”) which marks the end of a months-long wait to see if Québec will adopt a clear framework for the environmental authorization process. However, an in-depth analysis will be needed to determine the actual impact of the regulation on the mining sector.
In the view of the QMA, it is by no means clear that the changes made will reduce the time needed to obtain authorization for mining projects, a key element in Québec’s attractiveness for investors. The mining industry will have to wait again since any benefits will only become apparent over the medium and long term.
« The mining industry has, for many years, called for a reduction in barriers to the development of mining projects, without demanding deregulation. The current government has addressed the problem in a serious fashion, working with the various sectors concerned. We are happy with this approach, which we support. However, the actual impact of the changes on the mining sector cannot be measured immediately, and only time will tell if the objectives have been attained. »
« The regulatory amendment process, which began under the previous government, has taken a lot of time and has unfortunately reduced Québec’s attractiveness. The province has dropped from 4th place to 18th place on the list of the best jurisdictions for investment worldwide. More specifically concerning the perception of its environmental regulations, Québec has dropped from 10th to 41st position. This shows clearly that investors dislike uncertainty. It is now time to assimilate the new regulations and to continue to develop mining projects in a way that ensures respect for people and the environment. »
– Josée Méthot, President and CEO of the Québec Mining Association
About the Québec Mining Association
The Québec Mining Association (QMA) was founded in 1936 and speaks proactively for mining companies involved in exploration, extraction and processing, mining contractors and junior mining companies, along with suppliers, institutions, non-profit organizations and other mining sector partners. It is proud of the 40,540 jobs and total expenditure of $8.5 billion generated by Québec’s mining industry over the last year. The QMA’s mission is to promote, support and proactively develop a responsible, committed and innovative mining industry in Québec.