We reviewed all 17 Environmental Assessment Certificates that the EAO granted after the release of our July 2011 audit up to December 31, 2014 (See Appendix A). We assessed whether the EAO used language that was measurable and enforceable, and whether the EAO clearly designated post-certificate monitoring responsibilities. We carried out interviews with the EAO and other government staff, and we reviewed various related documents. We began our work in September 2014 and concluded in March 2015.
The EAO reported that it had fully or substantially implemented all six of our 2011 recommendations and we found their self-assessment was valid for recommendations one through four. However, for recommendations five and six, we conclude that partially implemented is a more accurate assessment of the progress made to date. To fully implement recommendation 5, we expect the EAO to evaluate whether project outcomes have been achieved for environmental, health, social, economic and heritage conditions. For recommendation 6, we expect the EAO to provide more comprehensive accountability information to the public through its reporting mechanisms.
Read full (2012) update report here.
Auditor General of British Columbia – May 26, 2015.
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