Minister Coady Highlights New Findings of Sapphire and Ruby through the Geological Survey

  • Natural Resources

November 7, 2019

Today, the Honourable Siobhan Coady, Minister of Natural Resources, highlighted work undertaken by the Geological Survey, such as a recent project that shows findings of ruby and sapphire. The minister was speaking to participants of Mineral Resources Review – Eastern Canada’s largest mineral industry conference and trade show.

The project completed through the Geological Survey used the results of an airborne geophysical survey as a guide to direct mapping and targeted sampling in Hopedale. Early results show small grains of sapphire and ruby in sediments originating from rocks that are similar to those of the gemstone-rich areas of Greenland, where rubies are currently being mined. Industrial uses for these minerals include lasers and semiconductors.

Other highlights of the Mineral Resources Review include:

  • Demonstration of the new online mineral claim staking system expected to be officially launched in January 2020.
  • The first consultation on the update to quarry legislation. Public advisories will follow with all future dates and times of the consultation process. These consultations will help ensure a modern and comprehensive legislation that addresses the current gaps and incorporates the knowledge and insight of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, including those with expertise in the quarry industry and land use developments.
  • Women in Mining workshop – an opportunity for women in post-secondary education to learn about career opportunities in the mining sector from women who are working in the industry.
  • Geological Survey’s public lecture which is being held tonight (Thursday, November 7) at 7:30 p.m., Delta Hotel and Conference Centre, St. John’s. Artist and geologist Jack Botsford will be speaking of his experience as Geologist in Residence with the Geology at the Edge program with his presentation, ‘Fogo Island: at the Intersection of Geology and Art’.

Mining is one of the province’s most important industries. With almost $4.3 billion in mineral shipments for 2019, it employs more than 6,300 people. The mining industry is also creating opportunities for local businesses, and increasing the province’s ability to invest in programs, infrastructure, education and health care.

Mining the Future 2030 – A Plan for Growth in the Newfoundland and Labrador Mining Industry delivers on commitments in The Way Forward to strengthen the province’s economic foundation. Our vision is to be a globally competitive, top tier jurisdiction for mineral exploration and development – one that is safe, environmentally responsible, maximizes benefits and opportunities, and competitively produces quality products for global markets.

Mineral Resources Review is a partnership between the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the provincial branch of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum. The conference attracts approximately 750 delegates and exhibitors representing the diversity of the mining industry.

Quote
“The mining industry in Newfoundland and Labrador has momentum – with every claim staked, with each blast, with each shipment of minerals leaving our province. Our plan, Mining the Future 2030, will continue this momentum as we achieve our vision of being a globally competitive, top tier jurisdiction for mineral exploration and development.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
Minister of Natural Resources

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Learn more
Mineral Resources Review 2019

Mining the Future 2030 – A Plan for Growth in the Newfoundland and Labrador Mining Industry

Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum

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Media contact
Lisa Lawlor
Natural Resources
709-729-5777, 631-8155
lisalawlor@gov.nl.ca

2019 11 07 10:40 am