Funds Focus on Mineral Exploration, Jobs in Nova Scotia

The province is investing more funds in Nova Scotian mineral exploration projects that will create more jobs and improve the rural economy.

"Through the province's mineral incentive program, we are increasing and promoting mineral exploration, which can lead to new discoveries, new mines, and good-paying jobs in Nova Scotia," said Natural Resources Minister Charlie Parker. "The program improves the province's competitiveness and meets one of the goals of the natural resources strategy by attracting new investment to Nova Scotia from a global minerals industry."

About $600,000 in grants will be distributed. Fifteen companies received $412,000 in funding for advanced exploration projects. Sixteen Nova Scotian prospectors, mostly locally based, received $180,000 in grants for preliminary mineral exploration activities. Advanced exploration grants are matched by funding from the company.

"The mineral incentive program supports mineral exploration that can lead to new mines, providing good jobs and economic development in rural Nova Scotia," said Sean Kirby, executive director of the Mining Association of Nova Scotia. "It is an important tool for encouraging exploration and attracting investment, and we are very pleased that the government is continuing the program."

The province announced support for a mineral incentive program in March 2012. Under the program, grants of up to $100,000 are available for advanced exploration projects. Grants of up to $15,000 are available to eligible prospectors for preliminary mineral exploration activities.

Prospectors are also eligible for funding to support introductory and continuing training on exploration techniques, safety, regulations and business development.

Program details and information on the funded projects are available at www.gov.ns.ca/natr/meb/nsmip/nsmip.asp .