BC Mining Industry Partners Launch Votemining.ca

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - April 15, 2013) - Today, the Mining Association of BC (MABC), the Mining Suppliers Association of BC (MSABC), the Association for Mineral Exploration BC (AME BC), and the Coal Association of Canada (CAC) have launched a "Vote Mining" campaign to coincide with the start of the 2013 BC provincial election. Through the campaign website www.votemining.ca, the Vote Mining coalition is encouraging British Columbians to join us in asking candidates how they will support a strong and vibrant exploration, mining and mineral processing industry in British Columbia.

Votemining.ca makes it easy for British Columbians to identify their candidates and communicate their support for the mining industry. For example, by using the website's "Take Action" tool users can within minutes create and email a letter addressed to candidates in their electoral district. Votemining.ca also contains mining industry fact sheets, a "voter toolkit" of resources, and information on local and provincial debates.

Mining supports jobs and families in communities across our province. BC has 21 major mines, over 30 industrial mineral producers, 2 smelters and over 350 exploration projects. There are also over 900 companies in BC that provide supplies and services to mining operations. In 2010 the BC mining industry supported over 37,000 well-paying direct and indirect jobs. In 2011 it provided $9.9 billion to the BC economy and $805 million in payments to government to support important social programs, including education and healthcare. BC mines also provide the minerals and metals we need for every-day life. Computers, bicycles, transit systems and hydroelectric energy transmission would not be possible without mining.

The mining industry will continue to play a key role in the economy of BC into the coming years if government and industry work together to support a strong exploration, mining and mineral processing industry that is committed to safety and leadership in environmental stewardship. The Vote Mining coalition urges all British Columbians to let their candidates know how important the mining sector is to our province before Election Day and "Vote Mining" on May 14.

Follow us on Twitter: @VoteMining

About Us:

Mining Association of BC (MABC)

Established through an act of the BC Legislature in 1901 to represent the interests of BC's mining industry, the Mining Association of British Columbia (MABC) is one of the oldest industry associations in the province. MABC 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 predominant voice of mining in British Columbia. Visit www.mining.bc.ca and follow @MA_BC.

Association for Mineral Exploration BC (AME BC)

The Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia (AME BC) is the lead association for the mineral exploration and development industry based in British Columbia. Established in 1912, AME BC represents, advocates, protects and promotes the interests of thousands of members who are engaged in mineral exploration and development in BC and throughout the world. AME BC encourages a safe, economically strong and environmentally responsible industry by providing clear initiatives, policies, events and tools to support its membership. Visit www.amebc.ca and follow @AME_BC.

Mining Suppliers Association of BC (MSABC)

Formed in 1986, The Mining Suppliers Association of B.C. (MSABC) comprises suppliers, contractors and consultants to the BC mining industry who are committed to promoting the sustainability of this valuable resource. Recognizing the importance of mining to the economic well-being of the province, the mission of the association is to promote the development of a sustainable mining industry in BC by "Building a Better Future for Mining." Visit www.miningsuppliersbc.ca and follow @minesuppliersbc.

Coal Association of Canada (CAC)

The Coal Association of Canada is an industry association that represents a broad spectrum of organizations within Canada's coal industry including mining companies involved in the exploration, development and production of coal, transportation (rail, ports, terminals), suppliers and consultants, industrial consumers and municipalities. The Association proactively supports its members in the development, growth and advancement of a safe, socially responsible and economically sustainable Canadian coal industry. Through outreach, communication and education, the CAC helps Canadians understand the role and value of coal. Visit www.coal.ca and follow @CoalCanada.

Authorized by the Mining Association of British Columbia (MABC), the Mining Suppliers Association of British Columbia (MSABC), the Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia (AME BC), and the Coal Association of Canada (CAC), registered sponsors under the Election Act 604-681-4321.