Feature Article June 3, 2004
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The Mining Act of Ontario needs to be reformedThere are good reasons for advocating changes to the Mining Act of Ontario. Experiences and research over the past four years show that being a surface rights landowner means very little when confronted with the rights afforded the mining industry. Initial concerns over the loss of property rights and prospectors' right of entry on private land created the move by the Bedford Mining Alert to seek changes to the Act. This group feels that compensation for damages is an insult and the obligation to sell property to a mining company looms as a large threat.
Concern has mounted with the realization that mining is considered the best use of land and that exploration work is not bound by the Official Plan or By-Laws of our township. The authority of the Mining and Lands Commissioner to confer rights and easements over property not open to claim staking strongly suggests that the threats extend to neighbouring properties and threatens the quality of the entire watershed.
The reality is that the mining industry enjoys rights and privileges not afforded to individuals or other industries. Bedford Mining Alert feels that changing the Mining Act to require consent from landowners before a claim can be staked as a first step to reform. Limiting mining to those areas where mineral development is considered appropriate and allowing environmental and archaeological work to keep a claim in good standing would promote responsible mining practices.
To ensure a more competitive process and fairer returns to the public purse the government of Ontario needs to move towards a nomination or bid process for mineral rights. To protect our water, the mining industry should be required toobtain permits paying for and limiting water taking.
It is time for the Mining Act of Ontario to be reformed to reflect the land use and environmental concerns of the new millennium.
For more information: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and www.bedfordminingalert.ca
