Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize National Mining Week.
In 2019, the mining industry created 719,000 direct and indirect jobs across the country, including 16,000 jobs for indigenous people. It also contributed nearly $71 billion to Canada's GDP.
The industry is also a world leader in environmental practices, innovation and clean technologies that will secure our low-carbon future.
We are committed to the mining industry. That is why we invested $365 million to extend the mineral exploration tax credit, $36.8 million to advance our battery mineral processing and refining expertise, and $9.6 million to create a critical battery minerals centre of excellence.
I ask all hon. members to join me in celebrating National Mining Week and recognize the importance of Canada’s mineral industry.