TORONTO – The Ontario government has launched a new ‘One Project, One Process’ (1P1P) framework as a way to speed up mining projects, including in the Ring of Fire.
Effective immediately, mining companies can apply to have advanced exploration and mine development projects designated under the 1P1P framework, with the first designation expected in the coming weeks.
“Ontario’s outdated, fragmented permitting system has caused delays of up to 15 years to approve a single mine,” states a release. “These delays hold back investment, job creation and access to critical and strategic minerals like nickel, lithium and cobalt, especially in high-potential areas such as the Ring of Fire, which is one of the most valuable untapped mineral regions in the world.”
Designated projects will be managed by a dedicated Mine Authorization and Permitting Delivery Team, led by the Ministry of Energy and Mines. It will act as a single point of contact to co-ordinate all necessary provincial approvals to reduce government review times by at least 50 per cent.
The Crown’s duty to consult obligation remains fully upheld under 1P1P, the release adds.
