Mr. Speaker, over the last decade the Canadian mining industry has become an example to the world in making sustainable development an essential part of its activities.
The Mining Association of Canada was the first mining body in the world to develop a national environmental policy based on the concept of sustainable development. In addition, Canadian mining companies spend hundreds of millions of dollars on environmental related projects, more than $300 million in 1993 alone.
One key example of the mining industry's commitment to the environment is its accelerated reduction and elimination of toxics program. Already Canadian mining companies have come close to meeting their emission reduction targets for the year 2000. This is almost five years ahead of schedule.
On behalf of all members of the House, I congratulate the Mining Association of Canada and its member companies on this outstanding achievement. I encourage them to expand upon their commitment to sustainable development with new and innovative initiatives.