In the context of the ongoing review of BC’s Health, Safety and Reclamation Code for Mines (the Code), MiningWatch Canada respectfully reiterates its recommendations set forth on day one of this review: “that the review needs to be broad enough to address the full range of necessary changes in mining policies and regulations in British-Columbia,” including, but not limited to:
- Improved environmental impact and sustainability assessments of mining projects
- Strengthened financial assurance for spills, accidents, and site closure reclamation
- Stronger environmental and safety compliance mechanisms
- Transparent community consultation processes, starting at the exploration phase
- Land use planning ahead of mining to reduce conflicts, balance development choices, and improve decision-making
- Respect for First Nations’ treaty and inherent rights to land, waters, and resources
MiningWatch was—and is still is—calling for broader public consultation process and a legislative committee process to help develop any proposed changes. Submitting proposed changes to a legislative committee in Victoria would ensure greater public scrutiny and greater regulatory stability in the long term.