The Alberta government wants fewer departments scrutinizing new development in the energy sector - a move that may speed development approvals in the oilpatch but potentially hinder the property development industry.
Legislation will be introduced this spring to begin implementation of a task force report whose recommendations include:
• establishing a new policy management office and ensuring integration of natural resource policies;
• creating a single oil and gas regulatory body;
• providing clear public engagement processes; and
• creating a mechanism to help resolve disputes between landowners and companies, and enforce agreements where required.
The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers is happy with the proposals, but the Alberta Wilderness Association has expressed concerns.
from Western Investor, March 2011
