Mines Branch working on delayed quarry permits, payments
The MHCA has requested an update from the Mines Branch on the processing of casual quarry permits this year, after hearing from members waiting on excessive delays.
Some applications submitted in January, and earlier, have yet to be processed.
The Mines Branch is working to reduce the backlog, having hired additional staff. The MHCA has been told that processing of applications is beginning to move faster. The MHCA will notify producers with updates as they are available.
“We understand how anxious such delays can make producers, whose work depends on timely access to the quarries,” MHCA President Chris Lorenc said. “We are in touch with the Mines Branch to ensure our industry concerns are recognized and that processing is occurring as they are able.”
The MHCA has made representations regarding the speed with which permitting occurs, as well as other key issues, such as the processing of payments that are due to contractors who completed rehabilitation work at spent pits and quarries in the last year.
Lorenc said the association will continue to press the province for movement on those payments. Payment has been held up due to an internal review of the Quarry Rehabilitation Fund, which has now been forwarded to the Auditor General’s Office.
