B.C. to move resource permit applications online

VANCOUVER – B.C. is moving applications for natural resource permits online as the premier attempts to bolster her economic credentials ahead of this May’s provincial election.

Premier Christy Clark announced several measures aimed at the province’s minerals sector at a mining conference in Vancouver.

The province will move applications for natural resource projects online beginning next month, which Clark says will make the system faster and more responsive.

Clark also announced $7 million to speed up the permitting process for water, land and mining exploration projects.

She says the province wants to ensure resource development proceeds in an environmentally friendly way, but she also wants businesses behind proposals to have an answer — whether it’s yes or no — quickly.

Clark used her speech to take veiled jabs at the Opposition New Democrats for what she often criticizes as a lack specific campaign promises.