RELEASE

For Release: Immediate
May 8, 2006

Roy Cullen Marks National Mining Week with Statement in the House of Commons

OTTAWA - The Honourable Roy Cullen, Official Opposition Critic for Natural Resources, and Member of Parliament for Etobicoke North, today delivered a Member's Statement in the House of Commons marking National Mining Week.

The text of the statement is as follows:

"Mr. Speaker, This week is Mining Week in Canada - a time to celebrate and highlight the many accomplishments and the contribution that the Mining Industry makes to Canada.

The Mining industry employs more than 370,000 Canadians in both rural and urban Canada, and is a world leader in sustainable mining technology. It accounts for 4% of our Gross Domestic Product, and is the largest private sector employer of Aboriginal Canadians.

While there are many positive things to speak of, there are also challenges. The Industry requires investment in geosciences, and support for a geological mapping strategy. It also faces a growing labour shortage as the industry will require up to 81,000 new people in the next 10 years.

The recent Conservative budget failed to address these concerns.

A new Liberal Government will meet these challenges head on, and ensure that our very important Mining Industry in Canada continues to grow and prosper.

Thank you Mr. Speaker."

For more information, please contact:
David Cuddemi, Executive Assistant
Room 317, West Block
613-995-4702