09/18/2026
‘Mining Matters: Opportunities for BC and Communities’ was the theme of this morning’s C3 Alliance Resource Breakfast Series.
Justin Himmelright, Skeena Gold + Silver, introduced the panel which discussed how BC’s mining sector sustains urban, rural, and First Nations communities across British Columbia.
Before introducing panel moderator Michael Goehring, President & CEO of the Mining Association of BC (MABC), Justin reflected on a remark he made two years ago: "We have money in our pockets, shovels in the ground, all we need is permits in ours hands.” This year, he was pleased to share that the Eskay Creek Project in Northwest BC is fully permitted and under construction, with production expected in early 2027.
Michael Goerhing set the stage by noting British Columbia has 31 new mines or mine extensions in various stages of advanced development. If approved, these projects could generate hundreds of thousands of jobs and contribute an estimated $79 billion in economic activity across the province.
Nadia Haider, Vice President, Sustainability at Elk Valley Resources, spoke about the significant community benefits of the Fording River Extension Project in the East Kootenay region. The project will sustain 1,500 jobs supporting local families, businesses, and communities for years to come.
Greg Perrins, Vice President, Sustainable Development Osisko Gold, spoke about this week’s Final Investment Decision for the Cariboo Gold Project. Osisko expects to invest more than $990 million during the project's three-year construction period, creating up to 600 jobs at peak construction. The company has a target that 75% of hires must come from the Cariboo region, underscoring its commitment to local economic development.
Minister Jagrup Brar spoke about his government’s efforts to advance mining projects and his Ministry’s ongoing efforts to improve permitting processes.
The most important question from the audience focused on how local elected officials can support resource development while maintaining strong environmental stewardship. The panelists pointed to three key considerations:
1️⃣ Continued investment in water quality management and treatment. EVR has invested approximately $2 billion in water treatment infrastructure.
2️⃣ Meaningful partnerships with communities and First Nations. Osisko emphasized the importance of collaborating with local communities to design projects that create shared benefits and long-term success.
3️⃣ BC's strong record of responsible mining. The province's regulatory framework continues to evolve and incorporate advances in science, technology, and best practices, thereby ensuring BC maintains some of world's highest standards for environmental protection and responsible resource development.
MABC thanks all the panelists for a thoughtful discussion and the C3 Alliance team for hosting another excellent event.
