Groups challenge fundamentally flawed document with list of questions government must answer on transparency, local communities, and the environment.

WINNIPEG / TREATY 1 TERRITORY AND HOMELAND OF THE MÉTIS NATION — Multiple oversights in the development of the Manitoba government’s new Critical Mineral Strategy have forced seven organizations to release an open letter and series of questions, urging a halt in implementing the strategy until answers have been provided and proper public consultation has taken place. The open letter explains that while the strategy is entitled “Driving Sustainable Growth,” the strategy makes no mention of the impact mineral exploration and mining activities have on the environment, while also containing outdated processes for Indigenous engagement and being produced without public input. 

“Manitoba’s strategy does not address the need to mitigate and regulate the negative environmental impacts of mining activities,” notes Jamie Kneen, MiningWatch Canada spokesperson. “Measures need to be included to prevent mining disasters and better protect the health of communities and the environment.”

Heather Fast, Policy Advocacy Director of the Manitoba Eco-Network explains, “By failing to consider the full range of public interests (including environmental protection and public health), the province has ended up with a very limited Strategy. The public needs more details and an opportunity to contribute to the development of an expanded strategy.”

The lack of transparency in the strategy about “financial reconciliation” and Indigenous partnerships has left many unanswered questions.

“It is unclear how the strategy is going to improve consultation opportunities and ensure Indigenous communities are able to give (or withhold) their free, prior and informed consent to mining developments,” notes Mary Jane McCarron from Camp Morning Star.

“Simply put, Manitobans should not be fooled into thinking this strategy reflects the best interests of Manitobans. Fending off ecological disasters, preventing climate change, and avoiding costly mine cleanups should be central to any strategy, but you won’t find any of that," said Eric Reder, Wilderness and Water Campaigner for the Wilderness Committee. "The Critical Minerals Strategy is a showpiece for industry, a list of public money thrown at speculating mining profiteers without care for community or ecology.”  

Participating organizations

• Mining Watch Canada
• Wilderness Committee
• Boreal Action Project
• Camp Morning Star
• Manitoba Energy Justice Coalition
• Manitoba Eco-Network
• Our Line in the Sand

Full letter

For more information please contact:

Eric Reder, Wilderness Committee
eric@wildernesscommittee.org | (204) 997-8584

Heather Fast, Manitoba Eco-Network
policy@mbeconetwork.org | (204) 770-2358