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There is now less than one month to go before the implementation of a Mineral Claims Consultation Framework (MCCF) in BC. The ability to stake claims is fundamental to finding and developing the critical minerals of the future, and the current process is putting that at risk. The AME team has been touring the province throughout February to hear from members about the MCCF, government plans to modernize the Mineral Tenure Act, and a variety of other issues.
From Nelson to Nanaimo, we heard our members’ anger and concern, but we also heard real solutions and ideas to fix the MCCF. We’re using this additional feedback already and are also working on a report to share with members, government and others.
We have heard core concerns including confidentiality, scope, timeline, and ensuring first right of refusal if a denied claim is reopened. These demonstrate members’ support for the letter that AME sent to Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals Jagrup Brar on February 7, which was also picked up in a column by the Vancouver Sun’s Vaughn Palmer.
Meanwhile, ongoing advocacy has included frequent meetings between me, AME staff and staff in the Ministry of Mining and Critical Minerals, as well as a meeting with Deputy Minister to the Premier, Doug Caul, to discuss our core issues and request a response to our letter. These efforts are paying off as government has provided responses to some of our concerns and has also committed to providing an FAQ next week. We urge them to act quickly to make these answers public.
As our team has been on the road, we also took the time to share what we heard at meetings with local media. This has resulted in valuable coverage in the Cranbrook Townsman and Terrace Standard, which has been syndicated in more than ten other local papers across the province.
EY’s recent British Columbia Mineral and Coal Exploration Survey 2024 report highlighted that mineral exploration spending in BC dropped 14% in 2024, with more spend going to mature projects. It also signalled that policy considerations are contributing to BC’s declining exploration spend. A critical minerals future that includes British Columbia requires early-stage greenfield exploration and investment.
With less than a month to go, there is no more time to waste on the MCCF implementation. We will continue to advocate for our members’ needs and ensure a functional system that addresses key concerns is in place by March 26.
Thank you to everyone that has shared their concerns and provided input,
Trish Jacques, Chair, AME