The provincial government is investing five million dollars to build capacity in the mining industry.

Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt says the province is spending the money on improving regulatory processes, as well as enhancing the department’s capacity to meaningfully engage and consult with Indigenous communities.

Nesbitt adds the province is increasing the complement of full-time staff at the department by 50 per cent to ensure it can keep up with demand for exploration work permits.

Other initiatives include the Assessment Credit Doubling Program being extended until the end of next year and the costs linked with the Heritage Resource Impact Assessment studies will now be eligible for assessment work credits.