Social Licence Task Group

The development of mineral resources has significantly contributed to improving the living standards and the quality of life of Canadians. Increasingly, this development has been undertaken in an environmentally, economically, and socially responsible manner to ensure long-term competitiveness and prosperity.

Over the years, it has become apparent that the social engagement component of resource development is essential to successfully realize mineral resource opportunities. The concept of social licence (an informal permission to operate from the public) is central to such engagement. Securing a social licence to operate allows industry, communities, and other stakeholders to work together to facilitate access to resources, attract investment and skilled personnel, and promote a sensitive policy framework to advance the sustainable development of mineral resources.

At the 2009 Energy and Mines Ministers’ Conference (EMMC), the Social Licence Task Group (an intergovernmental working committee) presented a report highlighting measures and initiatives from various industry sectors to secure a social licence to operate. Their success was attributed to instituting performance improvements, communicating these improvements in a credible way, and developing strong relationships and trust with communities (http://www.nrcan-rncan.gc.ca/mms-smm/poli-poli/col-col/2009/mmc-cmm-eng.htm).

To build upon these findings, the Social Licence Task Group was given a new mandate to look at the performance improvements in the mining sector, focusing specifically on:

• Environmental performance,
• Optimization of social and economic benefits,
• Transparency and accountability, and
• Community engagement and involvement in decision-making.

The Performance Review research will provide a credible basis for developing strategic directions and actions for governments and industry. The research will also promote the responsible and sustainable development of mineral resources through clearly outlining improvements and best practices, and identifying gaps that need to be addressed. A report will be prepared for the next EMMC in September 2010.