The Canadian government launched a review of its “Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Strategy for the Extractive Sector” with a round-table session in Ottawa with civil society organizations on Thursday (December 12).
.According to a press release from the office of the Minister of International Trade Ed Fast: “The consultations are part of a five-year review and will help the Government of Canada develop a plan to better assist Canadian extractive companies operating abroad with their responsible business practices.”
The review follows up on the government’s commitment to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and its Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises.
Environmental groups such as Mining Watch Canada have in the past questioned the motivation behind the corporate social responsibility discussions.
In a press release in 2012, it wrote: “Canada is a global player in the mining sector as a leading producer of commodities like potash, iron ore, coal, uranium, nickel, copper, gold and diamonds… Consistent public criticism of the industry for environmental and social issues at home and abroad have pushed the industry into taking a pro-active response to these concerns. Much of this effort is wrapped up in the language of ‘corporate social responsibility’.”
More information:
Press release – Harper Government Launches Consultations to Review Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy for Extractive Sector – here
Canada’s Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy – government information – here
Mining Watch Canada press release – Green Mining or Green Washing? Corporate Social Responsibility and the Mining Sector in Canada – here
Mining Watch Canada’s website follows a number of ongoing confrontations with Canadian mining companies worldwide – www.miningwatch.ca
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