The energy and mining industries are applauding the Harper government’s plan to dramatically shrink the federal oversight of proposed natural resource developments and hand over much of the responsibility to provinces. But environmental groups worry the government is preparing to abdicate its responsibility for environmental protection.
Natural Resources Minister Joe Oliver is due to unveil a sweeping legislative plan on Tuesday that will focus Ottawa’s role in environmental assessments to projects it deems to be of national significance.
Under the proposed legislation, Ottawa would concentrate its effort on environmental assessments of “major economic projects,” according to background information obtained by The Globe and Mail. Provinces will set their own level of oversight for smaller projects.
Shawn Mccarthy, John Ibbitson & Nathan Vanderklippe – Globe and Mail – September 6, 2012.
Want More Investigative Content?
