Impact Assessment Process Overview
On June 20, 2024, the Budget Implementation Act, 2024, received Royal Assent and brought into force amendments to the Impact Assessment Act (IAA). These changes were made in response to the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision on the constitutionality of the IAA. Over the coming weeks and months, this website along with procedures, policy and guidance documents will be updated to reflect these legislative changes, as required.
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1. Planning
Projects go through a planning phase where the public and Indigenous peoples are invited to provide information and contribute to planning the assessment.
2. Impact Statement
The proponent is provided with clear requirements for the information and studies for an Impact Statement. Sound science and Indigenous knowledge inform the Impact Statement.
3. Impact Assessment
The assessment considers potential environmental, health, social and economic impacts of proposed projects, including benefits. Potential impacts on Aboriginal and treaty rights are also assessed and consulted on. The Agency or review panel uses the information to develop an impact assessment report.
4. Decision-making
Public interest is at the centre of decisions. The impact assessment report and Crown consultation outcomes informs the Minister or Governor in Council decision on whether a project's adverse impacts are in the public interest. If yes, the Minister must establish conditions for the proponent. Decision statements set out the rationale for the decision, providing transparency and accountability.
5. Post Decision
The Agency will be active in verifying compliance with Decision Statements and correcting non-compliance. There will be greater transparency around follow-up programs, with increased access to key documentation, as well as increased opportunities for Indigenous and community participation in follow-up and monitoring programs.
Guiding Canada's Sustainable Future
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