NB 676
May 7, 2008
FREDERICTON (CNB) - The provincial government will hold public information sessions on uranium exploration and mining in early June, Natural Resources Minister Donald Arseneault said today.
"Our primary focus is ensuring that New Brunswickers have all the facts about uranium exploration and mining," Arseneault said. "That's why I've asked officials from my department to organize public information sessions."
The sessions will be held on the evening of Wednesday, June 4, in the K.C. Irving Theatre at the Hugh John Flemming Forestry Centre in Fredericton, and the evening of Thursday, June 5, at the Capital Theatre in Moncton.
"What is paramount is for government to be inclusive and listen to all points of view on this issue, most importantly from the scientists and specialists in the field," Arseneault said.
The sessions will be facilitated by an unbiased party, and scientific experts will be presenting information. Further details regarding the information sessions will be advertised in local newspapers.
Department officials will be on hand to answer any questions pertaining to New Brunswick's legislation and uranium exploration and mining processes. Representatives from exploration companies in the province will be available to answer any questions about their specific operations. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission has also been invited to participate to discuss its federal role in uranium mining.
New Brunswick has seen a marked increase in mineral exploration and mine development over the last few years. Last year, about $32 million was invested by the industry searching for minerals, and over $100 million on the development of mining operations. The value of mineral production in the province reached nearly $1.6 billion in 2007-08, with the province receiving about $150 million in royalties. The industry employs over 3,000 workers.
08/05/07
MEDIA CONTACT: Katharine Sidenius, communications, Department of Natural Resources, 506-453-2614.
08/05/07