Mining Association of British Columbia Congratulates New Government

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - May 15, 2013) - The Mining Association of British Columbia (MABC) congratulates all newly elected and re-elected representatives to the BC Legislative Assembly. MABC welcomes the re-election of the BC Liberal Party under the leadership of Premier Christy Clark and looks forward to continuing to work collaboratively with Ms. Clark's administration and all elected officials.

In 2012, the mining industry contributed $9.2 billion in gross mining revenues and made payments to government in excess of $500 million, an important contribution to BC finances in support of health care and education. The industry saw an increase in the number of direct jobs to over 10,400 with an average salary of $121,000, including benefits. Over the next decade, the mining industry has tremendous opportunities for growth and government has an important role in ensuring those opportunities provide benefits for British Columbians.

"With over 30 projects in the approval process and about $30 billion in investment on the table, the contributions the mining industry can continue to make to the BC economy and BC families is very real," said Karina Briño, President and CEO of the Mining Association of BC.

With the launch and implementation to the BC Jobs Plan in 2010 and a series of commitments to improve the project approval process, MABC recognizes the effort and commitment of the Clark government to ensure the mining industry continues to grow in a sustainable and responsible manner.

MABC represents companies involved in the advanced exploration and development, mining and smelting of minerals, metals, coal and industrial minerals in British Columbia. It is regarded as the pre-eminent voice of mining in the province.