A brief submitted to Industry Canada in the fall of 2002 by the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) promotes the mineral exploration industry as a leader in innovation and urges the removal of “red tape.”
The document was developed as a result of the federal government’s 2001 announcement of its innovation strategy and its call for submissions.
Sponsored by the PDAC and the exploration division of the Canadian Mining Industry Research Organization (CAMIRO), the brief points to the $27-billion diamond industry as an example of industry innovation. Here, says the brief, the exploration industry has demonstrated it can create wealth for Canadians via innovative methods, provided there is a suitable business climate and trained personnel.
The brief suggests several ways the government might foster innovation. For example, the government should continue tax-based incentive schemes to encourage entrepreneurial activity both in exploration and in the development and testing of new technologies.
However, the brief says a major hurdle to innovation is the “burgeoning layer of securities legislation and regulations.” It urges the government to break down such complex barriers and work with the provinces to create a more workable regulatory system.
Another recommendation is that the government enhance opportunities for young geoscientists by funding geological mapping strategies and encouraging co-operative industry-university employment programs.
Moreover, the brief asks the government to support applied research initiatives by CAMIRO, the National Science and Engineering Research Council, and other agencies by matching funds that support student field work and research.
In its final sections, the brief recommends that the federal government co-operate with the provinces in mapping Canada’s bedrock, and suggests it work with industry and industry organizations in fostering innovations.
— The preceding is from In Brief, the monthly publication of the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada.
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