Thank you, Madam Chair. Bill 78, Waste Reduction and Resource Recovery Act, received second reading in the Legislative Assembly on March 29th, 2023, and was referred to the Standing Committee on Economic Development and Environment for review. Bill 78 is intended to enable programs that support the goals of preventing waste at the source, diverting waste from disposal, and improving waste disposal practices.
In the committee's review period, the committee heard from the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and his staff on June 1st, 2023. The committee was able to have a thorough discussion with the Minister and officials about concerns regarding the Minister's authorities when it comes to waste reduction and resource recovery. The committee negotiated language for five motions to amend Bill 78 with the government.
On July 5th, 2023, the committee held its clause-by-clause review where five amendments were concurred with by the Minister of Environment and Climate Change.
I would like to thank the committee for its hard work on the review of Bill 78. Individual Members of my committee might have comments. Thank you, Madam Chair.