Government of Yukon
News archives
FOR RELEASE #08-299
November 27, 2008
New Certainty Given to Yukon’s Mineral Sector
WHITEHORSE – New certainty has been given to Yukon’s mineral sector with the passing of amendments to the Quartz Mining Act and the Miners Lien Act. Following passage by the Yukon Legislative Assembly, the amendments were given assent from The Honourable Geraldine Van Bibber, Commissioner of Yukon, today.
“The amended Quartz Mining Act and Miners Lien Act provide valuable clarity and certainty to Yukon’s mineral sector during this time of global economic uncertainty,” Brad Cathers, Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources, said. “This legislation will encourage a mining industry that yields the most benefit to Yukoners, while remaining competitive with other jurisdictions.”
The Quartz Mining Act regulates hard rock mining in Yukon. The claims administration and royalty sections of the Quartz Mining Act have been amended to lower exploration costs while ensuring Yukon has royalty rates for mine development that are competitive with other Canadian mining jurisdictions.
“Yukon’s mining sector is a significant contributor to Yukon’s economy,” Archie Lang, Minster of Community Services, said. “The Yukon government is committed to encouraging and supporting a sustainable mineral industry while ensuring that Yukoners receive maximum benefits from our resources.”
The Miners Lien Act provides the opportunity for contractors and suppliers to lien mine and mineral assets in situations where they have not been paid for a good or service. Language and definitions in the Miners Lien Act have been amended to provide better clarity and certainty for suppliers, the mining industry and lenders that provide debt capital for mine development.
Amendments to the Quartz Mining Act and the Miners Lien Act were prepared following public advertising campaigns and a series of meetings, information sessions and workshops, beginning in early 2008.
For more information about mining in Yukon visit: http://www.yukonmining.com/.
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| Contact: | |
| Matthew Grant Cabinet Communications 867-633-7961 matthew.grant@gov.yk.ca |
Mark Roberts Communications, Energy, Mines and Resources 867-667-5307 mark.roberts@gov.yk.ca |