Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the government and the hon. Minister of Natural Resources in particular for establishing National Mining Week.
This is a timely recognition of mining's importance to Canada and to regions of the country such as northern Ontario.
In Ontario, with 56 mines and 103 quarries, the mining sector contributed $4.9 billion to the economy last year. There are 300 companies providing mines with services and equipment.
The mining industry is a high-tech industry, very much part of our new economy. It is developing technologies for robotics and process control and anti-pollution systems. In addition, the mining industry has invested heavily in training and boasts a highly skilled workforce.
Ontario's mines have played and continue to play a leading role in developing these technologies. In areas like northern Ontario, mining is an integral part of our heritage. Mining is also an essential part of our present and our future.
I look forward to National Mining Week as an annual celebration to raise the profile of mining among all Canadians.