Earlier this month I had the opportunity to attend a CIM Toronto luncheon, where Brad Ryder, Director of Government Relations at Agnico EagleCIM, shared his 10 tips on mining and policy. Given that PRA works closely with provincial and federal government officials, this session was a great reminder of why government relations matter.
Here are five key takeaways that stood out:
Here are five key takeaways that stood out:1. Policy Drives Investment—Not the Other Way Around
It’s easy to assume that mining investment naturally flows toward the best deposits, but that’s not always the case. In reality, about 40% of all global mining investment is driven by policy decisions first—from permitting timelines to tax incentives and infrastructure commitments. If a jurisdiction isn’t seen as stable, transparent, or mining-friendly, even the most promising projects may struggle to secure funding. Lesson: Engaging with governments early isn’t optional—it’s fundamental to a project’s success.
2. It’s About Relationships
The term government relations often makes people think of lobbying or advocacy, but at its core, it’s about building relationships. The message you deliver matters—but even more important is how that message helps establish trust and alignment. Lesson: The most effective outreach doesn’t just push an agenda; it demonstrates how a company’s goals align with government priorities, whether that’s job creation, Indigenous reconciliation, economic growth, or environmental sustainability.
3. If You’re Reacting to Policy Decisions, You’re Already Behind
One of the most important insights from the session was this: if you’re setting up a meeting to push back against a government initiative, you’re probably too late. By the time a policy is announced, the wheels have been turning for months, even years. Companies that engage proactively during the consultation phase are the ones that help shape policy, rather than scrambling to react to it. The lesson: Don’t wait for a problem to arise before reaching out to policymakers.
4. Every Engagement Is an Opportunity to Educate
Mining is a complex industry, and the reality is that most government officials aren’t experts in mining and minerals. That’s not a knock on them—it’s just a fact. They juggle a wide range of issues, from healthcare to housing to transportation, and mining might not be high on their list. That’s why every engagement is an opportunity to inform, explain, and provide context. Lesson: If they don’t understand the industry’s contributions, view it as an opportunity, not a source of frustration. Be the voice that helps them connect the dots.
5. It’s a Long Game
Successful government relations isn’t about winning a single argument or securing a one-time approval. It’s about consistency and long-term engagement. Policy landscapes shift, governments change, and priorities evolve. Lesson: Companies that maintain open lines of communication, even when there’s no immediate issue at stake, are the ones best positioned when it matters most.
Thanks again to Brad Ryder and Agnico Eagle for a fantastic discussion. Looking forward to more conversations like this in the future.
