Natural Resources
August 11, 2014
Balancing Health and Safety, Environmental Protection and Economic Development
Panel to Undertake Independent Review of Hydraulic Fracturing
The Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Natural Resources, today announced that the Provincial Government will establish a panel to undertake an independent review of hydraulic fracturing in western Newfoundland. The panel will be provided with a terms of reference to share information and receive input from the public on hydraulic fracturing.
“There has been much discussion surrounding hydraulic fracturing in recent months. I can assure Newfoundlanders and Labradorians that our government’s first and main considerations when exploring an economic development opportunity are the health and safety of our people and protection of the environment. These principles guide our decisions and remain our highest priorities.”
- The Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Natural Resources
0n November 4, 2013, the Provincial Government announced it would not be accepting applications for onshore and onshore to offshore petroleum exploration using hydraulic fracturing. This provided the opportunity to undertake a balanced, internal review of regulations, rules and guidelines in other jurisdictions; and to complete the technical work necessary to fully assess the geological impact in western Newfoundland.
Petroleum drilling and production activities throughout the province have proceeded in accordance with stringent regulations and rules. The Provincial Government’s sound approach to petroleum industry regulation and environmental protection is guiding the review of hydraulic fracturing.
Details on the panel, including its composition and scope, will be announced in the coming weeks.
Oil and gas exploration and development has played a significant role in the economic growth of this province, transforming the economy and prospects for Newfoundland and Labrador.
QUICK FACTS
- The Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Natural Resources, today announced that the Provincial Government will establish a panel to undertake an independent review of hydraulic fracturing in western Newfoundland. The panel will be provided with a terms of reference to share information and receive input from the public on hydraulic fracturing.
- On November 4, 2013, the Provincial Government announced it would not be accepting applications for onshore and onshore to offshore petroleum exploration using hydraulic fracturing.
- This provided the opportunity to undertake a balanced review of regulations, rules and guidelines in other jurisdictions; and to complete the technical work necessary to fully assess the geological impact in western Newfoundland.
- The Provincial Government is committed to undertaking public engagement to ensure residents have an opportunity to comment and are fully informed before any decision on hydraulic fracturing is made.
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Media contact:
Diana Quinton
Director of Communications
Department of Natural Resources
709-729-5282, 631-8155
dianaquinton@gov.nl.ca
2014 08 11 7:30 p.m.