November 7, 2014
Ottawa
Natural Resources Canada
The Honourable Greg Rickford, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, today issued a statement following the passage of the Energy Safety and Security Act (Bill C-22) in the House of Commons.
“The Energy Safety and Security Act will enhance safety and security in Canada’s offshore and nuclear energy industries, protecting Canadians and the environment while supporting jobs and growth.
“The legislation increases the absolute liability limit for offshore and nuclear companies to $1 billion and improves protection for Canadians. These measures will ensure that companies, not taxpayers, are held responsible in the event of an accident.
“The Act builds on Canada’s strong record of safety and security in the nuclear and offshore energy industries and ensures that Canadians will continue to have a safety system that is accountable, responsive and transparent and works to prevent incidents from occurring.
“We know that economic prosperity and environmental protection are not mutually exclusive. Through our government’s plan for Responsible Resource Development, we are taking action to ensure that Canada has a world-class regulatory framework and a means for the safest form of resource development.”
Bill C-22 amends the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Resources Accord Implementation Act, the Canada-Newfoundland Atlantic Accord Implementation Act, the Canada Oil and Gas Operations Act (COGOA) and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act (CPRA). Bill C-22 also replaces the 1976 Nuclear Liability Act.
The Government of Canada worked collaboratively with the Provinces of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador to develop the offshore portion of Bill C-22, and mirror legislation is being developed and considered by those provinces’ legislatures.
The Energy Safety and Security Acthas now been referred to the Senate for consideration.
Alexandra Lemieux
Office of the Minister
Natural Resources Canada
613-996-2007
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