Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Our EDI report on fracking provided a start to learn about fracking, but as we learn more, the management challenge grows. In fact, urgent action is needed to make good decisions. We need to adopt best practices, yes, but what are these, will we actually adopt them, and how will we do so and ensure that they are followed? Many jurisdictions profess a similar commitment but have failed miserably to protect their citizens, despite good intentions.

The need for environmental and geological baseline data essential for good management is clear, but are we committed to achieving this information before allowing full-scale development should reserves prove up? This data collection typically requires a full field program, partnered with local knowledge. It’s expensive, takes time, and requires analysis and synthesis with existing information to be applied. Some of it requires a baseline before development is no longer possible.

The list of policy needs is long. Strong standards are required for all phases of the drilling process, including the placement and integrity of casings. Horizontal tracking and hydrocarbon production results in harmful emissions of toxic and carcinogenic compounds elsewhere and will here unless strictly regulated.

Given accelerating effects of climate change, greenhouse gas monitoring and mitigation measures aimed at ensuring no net increases are required. The impacts of contaminating billions of litres, perhaps trillions of surface water, removing them from the water cycle and storing them forever in the bowels of the earth, particularly given our low

precip and changing climate, must be clearly understood before we permit such activities.

The paramount importance of full and transparent communication and public engagement through all phases of the development has been demonstrated. Let’s educate our public, support their fact-finding trips to actual fracking sites, and fully respond to their concerns with actions to address and resolve them.

Every one of these are a tough challenge. Many jurisdictions have concluded they are too tough. For example, Quebec suspended fracking pending review. Vermont, Ireland and France have banned it. New South Wales in Australia bans the use of some chemical additives. Some who haven’t affected bans are now realizing steep costs.

Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement. Mahsi.

---Unanimous consent granted.