The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Jonathon Naylor Editor If exploration is the future of mining, the future is looking a bit brighter thanks to the Manitoba government. The province is spending $4.5 million to renew for three years its Mineral Exploration Assistance Program (MEAP), which provides subsidies to exploration companies. "Renewing MEAP is a sound investment for our mining industry, communities and the economy," said Mines Minister Dave Chomiak. "MEAP attracts companies to explore in Manitoba, bringing investment dollars to the economy, creating jobs, adding to our geological knowledge base and increasing the potential to find new ore bodies that may be Manitoba's next mine." The new three-year term for MEAP begins April 1. It will provide funding of $1.5 million through one offering per year during the next three years. The program provides assistance of up to 25 per cent of approved eligible expenses to a maximum of $200,000 per recipient per fiscal year. Chomiak said MEAP provides higher levels of assistance to encourage exploration in under-explored regions and areas that need new discoveries to sustain communities such as Lynn Lake and Leaf Rapids. He said Manitoba already has among the most competitive mining tax regimes in Canada. The province has been recognized nationally and globally as one of the best places for mineral exploration and mining, he added. "Mining is Manitoba's second-largest primary resource sector and is the primary employer in several Manitoba communities," said Chomiak. "The economies of many northern communities and indeed the whole province depend on the sustainability of a healthy mining sector. MEAP funding sends a very positive message of encouragement to companies exploring in our province." -- With notes from a government news release.
