Mining Association of BC statement on the Roger William Case Supreme Court Decision

Karina Briño, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Mining Association of B.C. (MABC), issues the following statement in response to the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision on Tsilhqot’in Nation v. British Columbia:

“The Mining Association of B.C. is reviewing the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision on Tsilhqot’in Nation v. British Columbia.

The decision confirms that resource development over land where Aboriginal title is asserted must, by law, be preceded by meaningful consultation. It further reinforces that industry’s commitment to meaningful consultation and engagement with First Nations will continue to position British Columbia as an attractive jurisdiction in which to mine. The decision provides certainty and clarification around aboriginal title and the application of provincial law and regulation on the land base.

The mining industry is the largest private sector employer of First Nations in B.C. and numerous Aboriginal-owned suppliers and contractors work collaboratively with, and benefit from, the mining industry. In addition to employment opportunities, the mining industry also recognizes the importance of revenue sharing agreements between the provincial government and aboriginal communities.

In 2013, the mining industry in B.C. generated $8.5 billion in gross revenues and contributed more than $500 million in taxes which support the delivery of essential public services, such as healthcare and education, and infrastructure across the province.”

About the Mining Association of B.C.: The Mining Association of B.C. represents the interests of B.C.'s mining industry. It is one of the oldest industry associations in the province and represents the collective needs and interests of operating coal, metal and industrial mineral mining companies. In doing so, it has come to be regarded as the voice and advocate for mining in British Columbia.