Minister Reports on Outcome of Energy and Mines Ministers’ Conference

The Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers Responsible for energy and mines recently met in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, to discuss the natural resources sector and the value of resource development on the country’s economic future.

“These meetings were an opportunity to provide an update on many of the projects happening in Newfoundland and Labrador including Muskrat Falls, Hebron and Long Harbour,” said the Honourable Tom Marshall, Minister of Natural Resources. “It was a pleasure to get together with my provincial and federal counterparts to discuss areas of mutual interest and encourage further collaboration and partnership under the theme of responsible resource development.”

During the conference, the ministers discussed the shifting energy landscape and current opportunities and obstacles facing the country’s energy sector. Topics included resource supply and security, distribution and use, environmental stewardship, renewable energy and energy efficiency, community engagement and unconventional oil and gas technology.

At the conference, Minister Marshall participated in a panel discussion on unconventional oil and gas production. He held discussions with several ministers from other jurisdictions where unconventional drilling and production are taking place.

“There has been extensive debate about unconventional oil and gas development in Newfoundland and Labrador, and it is an issue under discussion in many other oil-producing jurisdictions,” said Minister Marshall. “My discussions with a number of ministers at the conference to see how hydraulic fracturing is regulated in other jurisdictions were very informative and another opportunity to get the facts on unconventional development. Our government is doing its due diligence and we will continue to review regulations and guidelines to ensure an appropriate balance between resource development and environmental protection.”

During meetings, the ministers endorsed the Mining Sector Performance Report 2013 which emphasizes the important role of mining on the Canadian economy. Discussions were also held on effective ways to introduce innovative technology in the mining sector through the Green Mining Initiative.

The ministers are scheduled to meet again next year in Ontario.

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Media contact:
Diana Quinton
Director of Communications
Department of Natural Resources
709-729-5282, 631-8155
dianaquinton@gov.nl.ca

2013 08 30                                        11:05 a.m.