Cabinet appointments by François Legault : THE QUÉBEC MINING ASSOCIATION WELCOMES THE ARRIVAL OF JONATAN JULIEN AS MINISTER OF ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES
18/10/2018
Québec City, October 18, 2018 – The Québec Mining Association (QMA) congratulates Jonatan Julien on his appointment as Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and reiterates its willingness to work with him to ensure that mineral development in Québec continues to be a source of both pride and prosperity.
"In the view of the QMA, a natural resources minister must send a clear message that he hopes to see more projects take shape, within a competitive timeframe. The dynamic leadership of Mr. Julien in his previous position give us hope for the future. We will be glad to continue our work with the government authorities to ensure that Québec's wealth continues to increase thanks to mining," says Josée Méthot, the QMA's president and CEO.
The QMA believes that the new government led by François Legault must speedily address one of its election promises, to reduce the delays that characterize the development of mining projects in Québec. This affects Québec's competitive edge on the worldwide stage and, as a result, the viability of its mining industry. The QMA and its members have raised this concern numerous times.
"Premier Legault has clearly stated that he intends to improve the quality of life in Québec and increase economic activity. The mining industry is a pillar in several Québec regions and a key contributor to his objectives. This is why the QMA expects to see concrete action by the new government to reduce the obstacles to mineral development," Ms. Méthot continues.
The QMA also congratulates MarieChantal Chassé and Sylvie D’Amours for their appointments, respectively as Minister of the Environment and the Fight Against Climate Change, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. "The mining sector has many facets, and faces many different issues, in particular in the environmental and social fields. We will be happy to support the work of these ministers to ensure that their objectives take into account the realities faced by the mining companies that have chosen to operate in Québec," Josée Méthot concludes.
About the Québec Mining Association
The Québec Mining Association (QMA) was founded in 1936 and speaks proactively for mining companies involved in exploration, extraction and processing, mining contractors and junior mining companies, along with suppliers, institutions, non-profit organizations and other mining sector partners. It is proud of the 45,550 jobs and total expenditure of almost $6 billion generated by Québec's mining industry. The QMA’s mission is to promote, support and proactively develop a responsible, committed and innovative mining industry in Québec.