Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Northerners are concerned about the use of hydraulic fracturing, as evidenced by participation in public information sessions and frequent northern media coverage on this issue. Due to anti-fracturing activism and political controversy that surrounds shale resource development, the public has varying views and concerns about the unconventional drilling process. Regulators agreed that public concern and criticism provide opportunities to improve the regulatory system and promote good public policy. Along with proponents, they stressed the need for significant public engagement. British Columbia, with the support of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, is moving toward requirements for full public disclosure of industry activities, including well sites and the chemical composition of fracturing fluids. The committee highlights the province’s fracfocus.ca initiative, a website designed to provide objective information on hydraulic fracturing, and related oil and gas activities and regulations across Canada. The committee agrees the Government of the Northwest Territories should support and consider future contribution to this valuable public resource.
Recommendation 6
The Standing Committee on Economic Development and Infrastructure recommends that the Government of the Northwest Territories undertake meaningful public consultation in the development of a policy on hydraulic fracturing.
The committee is of the view that the general public and residents in the area where hydraulic fracturing is planned need to be kept informed of industry’s activities and afforded the opportunity to benefit from resource development taking place on our lands.
Recommendation 7
The Standing Committee on Economic Development and Infrastructure recommends the Government of the Northwest Territories include in its policy on hydraulic fracturing requirements for fair and transparent communication and opportunities for public engagement throughout all phases of the development of shale oil and gas projects.
I will now turn the floor back to the chair of the committee, Mr. Hawkins.