THE ASSOCIATION OF GEOSCIENTISTS OF ONTARIO IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THAT THE PROFESSIONAL GEOSCIENTISTS ACT PASSED THIRD READING IN THE ONTARIO LEGISLATURE ON JUNE 22, 2000.

The Professional Geoscientists Act passed third reading in the Ontario Legislature on June 22, 2000 only two days after passing second reading. Full details of the debates on the Act tabled as Bill 86 can be found in Hansard in the legislative website at http://www.ontla.on.ca/hansard/hansardindex.htm (1st reading click June 8, 2nd reading click June 20B and third reading click June 22 and follow links to Bill 86). The news release of the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines can be found at MNDM Press Release.

The Professional Geoscientists Act will establish the Association of Professional Geoscientists of Ontario (APGO) as the governing body for geoscientists, and empower the association to establish standards of professional practice for persons who wish to be recognized as geoscientists. It will regulate geoscientists and allow them the opportunity to be deemed "qualified persons" for the purpose of reviewing and approving all mineral exploration results intended for public release. In addition, this legislation will protect the public against unskilled and unethical actions.

The executive of the Association of Geoscientists of Ontario, acting as the Transition Council for the new Association of Professional Geoscientists of Ontario, will consult with AGO's members in the development of regulations. The Ministry will work with the Transition Council to develop a strategy for finalizing those regulations. The regulations will be brought back to the Minister of Northern Development and Mines for final approvals.

This is a great day for geoscientists in Ontario! The Association of Geoscientists of Ontario has now fulfilled its mandate from its membership to achieve legislation for licensure and will begin the transition to become APGO. There is much work ahead of us but with the continued support of our membership, we will build a strong and vibrant professional association that will serve the public and the geoscience community well.

The AGO executive will be meeting with the Ministry next week to work out a full plan for the transitional period and development of regulations. We will continue to keep you informed on further developments through our website, e-mail service and in the Update newsletter. Your support and feedback has been critical in making this happen.

Bill N. Pearson
President
Association of Geoscientists of Ontario