Letters to the Editor Haileybury graduates appreciated

In response to the letter “Haileybury has fallen behind” by Ken Swanson (mining technologist) in your Aug 18 issue, I have the following comments to offer:

* It is a very self-serving letter — reputations are not built on letters to editors of mining publications but on turning out first-class work, operating from a sound educational background.

* Most mines start out in remote areas and this is becoming increasingly more so as exploration moves further north; without the support areas available in Sudbury or Sussex (unless a technologist or engineer is thoroughly versed in most aspects of the operation, injury, sickness or death of a staff member becomes an instant problem) where does a “tunnel vision” staff member stand under those conditions?

* When a Haileybury student graduates he is a surveyor, assayer (both dry and wet methods), has a general knowledge of geology, mining geophysics metallurgy, map- making and report writing, sufficient to be of considerable help in any department that requires assistance.

* Graduates from Haileybury are accepted in all major universities in North America which teach mining, geology and metallurgy leading to a Bachelor of Science degree. Most allow substantial credit for their years in Haileybury. They can then choose what area of specialization they wish to enter — and still retain the excellent background on other aspects of the mining industry instilled at the Haileybury School of Mines. Believe me, with well over 50 years of mining experience I know what graduate I’d hire if making a choice.

* His reference to losses of $500,000 per year suffered recently at Haileybury certainly reflects his lack of knowledge in economics — can he indicate just one college or university that “makes” money? They exist only through government support and the contributions of their alumni.

* Haileybury is going through trying times along with the rest of the mining industry — when the turn comes, Haileybury will very quickly be back on safe ground in full measure.

* I know very little about Cambrian College except that it was probably another one of the mistakes made by Bill Davis during his experimental educational era. A. D. Hellens, B.Sc., P.Eng. Toronto, Ont.