Centre for Northern Innovation in Mining Explored by Yukon College

Whitehorse - Yukon College is embarking on a feasibility study for the establishment of a Centre for Northern Innovation in Mining in the territory.

The yearlong study will be conducted in two phases and overseen by an Advisory Group comprised of industry, government and First Nation representatives.

“Yukon College wishes to establish an education, training and research centre that will offer accredited programming in mining and related technology and conduct - in collaboration with industry partners and other research institutions - applied research projects that will help increase the competitiveness of the territory’s mining industry,” said Yukon College President Karen Barnes.

The study’s first phase will involve information gathering, consultation with the territorial and First Nation governments, non-governmental organizations, communities and industry.

This data will provide a comprehensive portrait of the mining and exploration industry both in the territory and on the global stage and reveal how the industry is integrated into the social and economic fabric of the Yukon.

The second phase will consider the first phase findings and provide the Advisory Committee with anticipated benefits, a business plan and a financial analysis.

“The Government of Yukon is pleased to support both the mining and knowledge sectors through this initiative,” Economic Development Minister Steve Nordick said. “We welcome the opportunity to work with our industry, government and research partners on enhanced innovation and mining-related technology projects.”

Exploration spending in the Yukon was $45 million in 2005, increased by 300 per cent to $160 million in 2010 and is expected to be in excess of $300 million this season and employ more than 1000.

The feasibility study will be completed in the spring of 2012.