Technical program
Session 1
New geological knowledge and mineral potential in the eastern part of the James Bay region
In the last decade, the vast area extending east of James Bay to Grenville Province has been the site of two major discoveries in gold (Éléonore) and diamonds (Renard). Its mineral potential also appears to be high for other metals and mineral products, including uranium, the base metals, ferrous metals, lithium, rare earth elements and others. The time seems right to review its geological and metallogenetic development in light of recent geological work carried out by Géologie Québec, the universities and the industry.
Session 2
Mining Investment - What's in Store for 2011?
Despite the current economic situation, mineral exploration continues and still offers some good opportunities for investment. Specialists will make predictions for exploration investments in mines and metals in 2011. They will also present their latest thoughts on precious metal and base metal prices, along with their perception of the world economic crisis and its impact on mineral resource development. The presentation will be followed by a round table, and the general public will have an opportunity to ask questions and talk to the speakers.
Session 3
Are you aware of all the financing sources for your mineral exploration and development projects?
Financing is the nerve centre of the mining industry, and there are many different sources of financing for mineral exploration and development projects, both at home and abroad. Investments can take different forms, some of them conventional, others less so. The different types of available financing will be reviewed in a series of presentations suited to all types of audiences.
Session 4
New geological knowledge and mineral potential in the Grenville province
In the last decade, the work done by provincial geological departments in Québec and Newfoundland-and-Labrador, as well as by the Geological Survey of Canada, academic researchers and the industry itself, have greatly enriched our geological and metallogenic knowledge of Grenville Province. At the dawn of a new decade, it is time to review the current situation and present a new image of this territory.
Session 5
Innovation in mineral exploration
Mineral exploration is based on innovation, and is comparable in many respects to biotechnology and new information technology. What can be done to stimulate innovation in the exploration sector? How can it be maximized? These are the two questions that will be addressed during the session. The exploration innovation ecosystem in Québec and abroad will first be introduced. This will be followed by an examination of the innovation processes leading to the discovery of new territories and the development of new mineral substances by renewed organizations, the development of new gitological models and the use of new exploration methodologies.
Session 6
Social acceptability of mineral exploration and development projects
In recent years, the mineral exploration companies have renewed their practices in light of the environmental, economic and social concerns expressed by the communities affected by their activities. This session, which is open to the public, will attempt to determine whether the changes made have met the expectations of local communities. Among the topics for discussion will be the task of reconciling the needs of different users and inhabitants in areas in which exploration activities take place.
