November 15, 2010 - The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is satisfied that the government response to the Joint Review Panel Report (JRP) on the Mackenzie Gas Project (MGP) addresses concerns raised by the JRP. Some of the same issues were also raised by parties to the environmental assessment of the MGP.
“The modifications made to recommendations directed to the GNWT clarify our expectations for implementation,” Minister of Environment and Natural Resources J. Michael Miltenberger said. “We believe our response is in keeping with the overall intent of the JRP Report and, if the MGP proceeds, allows our Departments to meet the commitments made in the Governments’ Response.”
Most of the recommendations not accepted as written, have merit and actions are still being taken to address the underlying issues raised in a broader context than the MGP. For example, the recommendation on the development of a grizzly bear range plan was modified to state that this plan will be lead by the GNWT and focussed on the Mackenzie Delta.
Other recommendations considered out of scope, such as completion of land use plans and land claim agreements, are on-going and follow previously established processes.
Proposals for additional or new natural gas fields and other developments are subject to the appropriate legislative and regulatory review. The JRP Report will be available to parties to these processes including regulators, proponents and interveners.
“The GNWT is confident its requirements can be met as a result of the National Energy Board proposed conditions, the MGP Socio-economic Agreement, the Proponents’ commitments and the implementation of additional JRP recommendations by the federal government and other parties,” added Miltenberger.
The next step in the process is for the National Energy Board to release its regulatory decisions. These decisions are expected before the end of the year.
For more information, contact:
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier/Cabinet
Government of the Northwest Territories
Phone: (867) 669-2302