AME BC Congratulates Federal Cabinet

VANCOUVER, BC--(Marketwired - November 04, 2015) - The Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia (AME BC) congratulates members of the federal cabinet who were sworn in today at Rideau Hall, Ottawa.

"On behalf of AME BC, I congratulate Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and members of the new federal cabinet," says David McLelland, Chair of AME BC. "We look forward to working with the federal government to encourage an economically strong and environmentally responsible industry that is based in British Columbia and has an important global presence in responsible mineral development."

"The BC-based mineral exploration and development industry continues to make enormous contributions to the social and economic well-being of all Canadians," notes Gavin C. Dirom, President & CEO of AME BC. "The swearing-in of a new federal cabinet is an opportune time for everyone to reflect on the importance of championing the investment, exploration and mineral development potential of British Columbia to all Canadians."

Specifically, AME BC will advocate for the following:

• Ensuring an effective and efficient environmental assessment and permitting process;
• Maintaining mineral exploration tax incentives and improving access to venture capital;
• Clarifying government's duty to consult and industry's role in aboriginal engagement;
• Funding of targeted geoscience initiatives in BC and across Canada; and
• Supporting Aboriginal skills training and bridge-to-employment initiatives.

Key cabinet ministers for the BC-based mineral exploration and development sector will include the Hon. Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs; the Hon. Bill Morneau, Minister of Finance; the Hon. Jody Wilson-Raybould, Minister of Justice and Attorney General; the Hon. Jim Carr, Minister of Natural Resources; the Hon. Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change; and the Hon. MaryAnn Mihychuk, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour.

"We extend our sincere congratulations to the new members of Canada's federal cabinet and wish them much success in their work to benefit all Canadians," concludes Dirom.

About AME BC:

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.