Report From Parliament Hill

Eric Melillo, MP, Kenora-Kiiwetinoong Riding

Dear Constituents

This week in Ottawa, I questioned the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources about the ongoing delays facing Canada’s natural resource sector. Specifically, I questioned the Minister about the lengthy approvals process for resource projects across northern Ontario. 
Resource development is critical to Canada’s economic independence and security. In northwestern Ontario, where we have world-class mineral deposits, mining projects are being stalled by bureaucracy instead of receiving approvals.
Under the Liberal government, it takes about 15 years to approve a new mine in Canada. That’s simply unacceptable. 
The Minister refused to support the 42 major projects currently under review by this Liberal government.
These are not just delays—they are missed opportunities. Each of these projects represents significant economic potential and ability for Canada. But Liberal red tape and ten years of anti-resource, anti-development policies continue to stand in the way.
I also questioned how Liberals are addressing the unjustified U.S. softwood lumber duties. The previous Conservative government got a softwood lumber deal done with the Americans in just 80 days. Unfortunately, on-going duties, regulatory duplication and red tape are impacting Canadian mills. 
Conservatives know we must repeal laws that prevent us from developing our resources. We are ready to unlock our resources with shovel-ready zones that provide pre-permitting, clear conditions and boundaries to start building mines, pipelines, and many more projects.
Our Canadian resource sector needs breakthroughs, not baby steps – and Conservatives are here to work with all other parties to get it done. 
Working for You
If you’re visiting Ottawa and would like to attend Question Period or take a tour of Parliament, please get in touch. My office would be happy to help you reserve tickets.
As always, if there is anything my office can assist you with, please call me at 807-223-2182 (Dryden) or 807-468-2170 (Kenora) or email me at [email protected].
Sincerely,
Eric Melillo
Member of Parliament
Kenora—Kiiwetinoong