OTTAWA, June 16, 2016 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada believes the environment and the economy can go hand in hand. Accordingly, proposed major resource projects need to undergo a thorough review and must carry the confidence of Canadians if they are to proceed.
The National Energy Board (NEB) today determined the applications for TransCanada's Energy East and Eastern Mainline pipeline projects are complete. This means the 21-month NEB review period will now begin.
The NEB will use this time to review the two projects, as required under the National Energy Board Act and Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. In addition, as announced in January as part of the interim measures for major projects currently under review, Canada's Minster of Natural Resources, the Honourable Jim Carr, will recommend the appointment of up to four temporary board members to the National Energy Board. These new members will engage communities and Indigenous groups along the proposed pipeline route, listen to comments and concerns raised by Canadians and report back to the NEB.
Once the NEB has completed its 21-month review, it will make a recommendation to the Government on whether the projects are in the public interest. The Government will then consider the NEB's recommendation and make a final decision on the project.
Quick Facts
- Today's announcement reflects the Interim Strategy for major projects outlined by the Government of Canada on January 27, 2016.
- The five principles that will guide decision-making during this period are:
- No project proponent will be asked to return to the starting line — project reviews will continue within the current legislative framework and in accordance with treaty provisions, under the auspices of relevant responsible authorities and northern regulatory boards;
- Decisions will be based on science, traditional knowledge of Indigenous peoples and other relevant evidence;
- The views of the public and affected communities will be sought and considered;
- Indigenous peoples will be meaningfully consulted, and where appropriate, impacts on their rights and interests will be accommodated; and
- Direct and upstream greenhouse gas emissions linked to the projects under review will be assessed.
Quote
"Major resource projects must go through a review and consultation process that carries the public trust, and today marks a key milestone in that process. I encourage Canadians to take part in the NEB's review as this will help inform our decision on Energy East."
Jim Carr
Canada's Minister of Natural Resources
Related Links
Government of Canada Moves to Restore Trust in Environmental Assessment
Interim Measures for Pipeline Reviews
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SOURCE Natural Resources Canada
Alexandre Deslongchamps, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Natural Resources, 343-292-6837; Media Relations, Natural Resources Canada, Ottawa, 343-292-6100
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