Northern Ontario Mining Showcase was largest pavilion at PDAC
Sudbury area mining businesses and political leaders were represented at the opening of the annual Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) convention that took place in Toronto earlier this week.
Northerner joined thousands of exhibitors and delegates from around the world to show off what their companies have to offer, what the hottest new minerals properties are being shopped around and to take part in workshops and seminars on the newest methods of exploration and mining. Attendance on Sunday was estimated at more than 22,000; a figure expected to increase to more than 25,000 by Wednesday, when the convention closes.
Sudbury MP Paul Lefebvre was one of the speakers at the officials opening of the Northern Ontario Mining Showcase, the largest single pavilion at the entire convention
“Canada is a mining nation. Mineral exploration and mining has played a central role in defining our country and shaping our future,” he said.
He said it was particularly true for Sudbury where in the past century, some 77 mines have produced more than $300 billion worth of metals.
“Everything from nickel, copper, platinum, silver and gold,” said Lefebvre. He said Canada is a resource rich country that has the raw materials to build on the growing high-tech economy
He said the federal government recognizes that Northern Ontario has the people and expertise to take advantage of that. Lefebvre said the Liberals believe mining will continue to play a key role in Canada’s economy going forward into the 21st century.
“That’s why we recently renewed the mineral exploration tax break for a full five years,” said Lefebvre. He said this was the first ever multi-year extension of the tax break, instead of having federal ministers drop by to announce a new extension every year or so.
“By any measure Northern Ontario has become a mining powerhouse and you can see that displayed here,” he said referring to the pavilion where more than 100 mining service and mining supply companies were set up with booths and display areas.
Among the community leaders who took part in the showcase were several mayors from across Northern Ontario including Greater Sudbury mayor Brian Bigger, North Bay mayor Al McDonald, Timmins Mayor George Pirie, Hearst mayor Roger Sigouin and Mayor Carman Kidd from Temiskaming Shores.
Bigger said it was vital for Greater Sudbury to take part in the event.
“Well you know it is so important to come to PDAC to show support for the mining and service supply companies from Sudbury. We have over 90 companies down here at the convention this year,” said the mayor.
“The other important part is meeting different delegations from countries around the world and building our global brand and inviting people from around the world to come up to Sudbury and Northern Ontario to see all the innovation and work being done in mining.”
