The committee is aware that in addition to the newly formed Energy Secretariat in the Department of Executive and the Hydro Secretariat within FMBS, there are a number of other departments working on energy initiatives. The committee would like to see a reorganization that incorporates all of these initiatives under one roof in order to reduce costs and avoid duplication of efforts.

The committee noted that Mr. Handley is in charge of the Energy Secretariat, despite the fact that the Executive is the responsibility of the Premier. The committee was informed that both Minister Handley and Minister Antoine are in the process of developing option papers regarding the coordination of both energy and environment initiatives. The committee looks forward to reviewing the option papers once completed and offering its opinion on any new proposals.