NEWS RELEASE: Ontario Supports Cutting-Edge Mining Research In Sudbury

(L to R) Kevin Manuel, Account Executive, 3M Canada Company; Nicholas Dickson, Team Leader, UVT Product Group, Mining Technologies International; Rick Bartolucci, Minister of Northern Development and Mines and Chair of the NOHFC; Oliver Koski, Business Development Manager, Mining Technologies International and Charles Graham, CAMIRO - Mining Division.

August 9, 2012 10:20 AM

McGuinty Government Strengthening Province’s Mining Sector

Today Rick Bartolucci, Minister of Northern Development and Mines and Chair of the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) announced NOHFC funding of $300,000 for CAMIRO’s work to test a flexible thin spray-on lining that helps keep broken rock safely in place in deep underground mining. The new product could become an important tool in ensuring the health and safety of underground workers.

Ontario is investing in innovative new technology that will help strengthen Sudbury’s position as a world mining leader.

Through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), the Canadian Mining Industry Research Organization (CAMIRO) will test a thin spray-on lining that helps keep broken rock safely in place in deep underground mining. The new product could become an important tool in ensuring the health and safety of underground workers.

Supporting a successful mining sector is part of the McGuinty government’s Growth Plan for Northern Ontario. A strong Northern economy creates local jobs and protects the services that mean the most to families – health care and education.

“Sudbury is a world leader in the mining supply and services sector. By funding businesses that focus on tapping into emerging technologies, our government is creating jobs and investing in a prosperous future for all Sudburians.”

– Rick Bartolucci
Minister of Northern Development and Mines and Chair of the NOHFC

“Thin spray-on linings are required to restrain broken rock and reduce the risk of mining at depth. With this project, the Ontario government is working with Xstrata Copper and Vale to continue their record of leading and participating in research and development.”

– Charles Graham
CAMIRO Mining Division
 
QUICK FACTS

The NOHFC is supporting this project through its Emerging Technology program.

Since the introduction of the Emerging Technology Program, the NOHFC has invested more than $148 million in 216 projects, creating over 1440 jobs.

Within the City of Greater Sudbury, $37 million has been invested in 54 projects, resulting in the creation of 277 local jobs.

CAMIRO is a not-for-profit organization run by the mining industry to manage collaborative mining research that strengthens the country’s mining sector.

 CONTACTS

Laura Blondeau
 Minister’s Office
 416-327-1421
 laura.blondeau@ontario.ca

Natalie Dumont
 Communications Branch
 705-564-7113
 natalie.dumont@ontario.ca