Major Drilling Expects Profitable Q3

MONCTON, NB, Jan. 22 /CNW/ - Major Drilling Group International Inc. (the "Company") (TSX: MDI), in its press release dated December 5, 2006, advised that it typically shows a loss in its fiscal third quarter (November 1 to January 31), due to mining and exploration companies shutting down operations, often for extended periods, over the holiday season, and the fact that the Company schedules substantial overhaul and maintenance work on its equipment during this slower period.

Since this statement was released, the Company now expects its third quarter to be profitable due to shorter than expected shut-downs, generally improved pricing, and an increased number of rigs in the field. The seasonal factors typical in the Company's third quarter are still expected to result in reduced revenues, margins and earnings when compared with other fiscal quarters, and it should be noted that the results for the third month of the quarter, which is the current month, are not known at this time.

Some of the statements contained in this press release may be forward-looking statements, such as estimates and statements that describe or are with respect to the future price of minerals and metals, the Company's future plans, objectives or goals, including words to the effect that the Company or management expects a stated condition to exist or occur. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature, they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results in each case could differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements by reason of factors such as, but not limited to, the factors set out in the discussion starting on pages 20 to 23 of the 2006 Annual Report entitled "General Risks and Uncertainties", as augmented by the section entitled "General Risks and Uncertainties" in the discussion starting on pages 6, 7 and 8 of the Company's second quarter MD&A, each as filed with the Canadian Securities Commission (available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com). All such factors should be considered carefully when making decisions with respect to the Company. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, including those statements that are incorporated by reference herein, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by or on its behalf, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

Based in Moncton, New Brunswick, Major Drilling Group International Inc. is one of the world's largest metals and minerals contract drilling service companies. To support its customers' mining operations and mineral exploration activities, Major Drilling maintains operations in Canada, the United States, Mexico, South and Central America, and in Australia, Indonesia, Africa and Mongolia.