Parties’ Mining Positions

Reuel S. Amdur

Québec Solidaire Deputy Alejandra Zaga Mendez outlined her party’s mining policy during her visit to Gatineau on April 22.  We also contacted the Liberals and Part Québécois for their position.

Zaga spoke of mining royalties, which she said are currently from one to four per cent.  She charged that Quebec “is letting its resources go for a pittance.”  And before a mine is approved, Québec Solidaire (QS) wants the matter put to a public inquiry, for giving the opportunity for adequate consideration of environmental concerns.  Zaga also wants the Mining Act amended, so that it will not take precedence over municipal planning.  Finally, the QS wants the Minister of Natural Resources to have the power to withdraw approval “according to certain environmental considerations, public health, or even respect for indigenous rights.”  In her comments about the need for a public hearing, Zaga mentioned the approval given to Northvolt, to build a large battery plant east of Montreal.  Environmental advocacy groups fear damage to wetlands.

The Liberal Party provided their statement.  They call for transparency in decision-making.  This is similar to the QS call for public input.  Again as with the QS, Liberals have concerns about Northvolt.  They want protection for water courses and the environment generally.  They call for revision and simplification of the determination of what areas are not suitable for mining.  As for royalties, they want rates compatible with those elsewhere, to avoid driving firms away.  Liberals share QS concern about aboriginal interests.  Furthermore, they want aboriginals to participate in development.  They also want to look at sharing the royalties with local governments involved.

While we have not managed to get a statement from the Parti Québécois (PQ), we have managed to identify some elements of where they stand.  They agree with the QS about the need for increased royalty fees.  They want a guarantee that the Northvolt development will not threaten the biodiversity of the Richelieu River. With the QS, they want environmental review of mining proposal.  PQ Deputy Joël Arseneau questions whether this plant will actually aid Quebec in reduction of greenhouse gases.

The Coalition Avenir Québec position on the subject is expected sometime this spring.