VICTORIA - A Mineral Tenure Act regulation (MTAR) has been finalized to promote the exploration and development of mineral resources in British Columbia.

The changes are the result of a review and consultation with the exploration industry, which began in September 2010 with a discussion paper describing proposed changes, followed by a series of information sessions delivered throughout the province in late 2010.  

The amendments revise exploration work requirements, eliminate 12 fees and increase nine others so that the overall fee structure remains revenue neutral.

The changes ensure mineral exploration in B.C. remains in line with other comparable mining jurisdictions in Canada.

A review of the regulatory amendments will be conducted in two years.

For more information on the fees and changes in regulation please visit: http://www.mineral.titles.gov.bc.ca/NOTICES/Pages/default.aspx

Contact:

Sandra Steilo
Media Relations
Ministry of Energy and Mines
250 952-0617