Surrey Board of Trade Supports Bill C-69 Amendments Passed by Senate, Federal Government Needs to Reconsider

On June 5, the Standing Senate Committee on Energy, Environment and Natural Resources issued 190 recommendations for Bill C-69. Industry has been satisfied by the 190 amendments and shows that the Senate is listening to the business community while still ensuring environmental efficacy.

The purpose of the contentious bill was to establish an impact assessment process that helps protect the environment and the health and safety of Canadians; that enhances Canada’s global competitiveness; and where infrastructure decisions can be made in a predictable and timely manner, providing certainty to investors and stakeholders. All of these facets are supported by the Surrey Board of Trade.

“With the amendments, clarity has been improved, timelines firmed up to ensure investor and stakeholder certainty, municipalities and provinces are included, and the use of technical expertise was increased,” stated Anita Huberman, CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade.

“We need the Federal Government to take another look at all of the Senate’s amendments to Bill C-69 and approve them.”

“We wanted to see a bill that would engage our communities, experts, and stakeholders to ensure that industry does not suffer. The Impact Assessment Act includes amendments that will focus on the certainty of economic development. This is pertinent to ensure that Surrey and Canada continue to showcase its competitiveness on the global stage.”

A summary of the Senate amendments to Bill C-69 include: 1. Emphasis on investment, innovation and economic development – now referenced throughout the Bill and proposed Impact Assessment Act;

Strengthened independence of the Agency and reduced political discretion; 2.

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More reliant timelines;

Increased clarity;

Stronger role of municipalities and reinforcement of provincial jurisdiction;

Acknowledgement of the unique circumstances of Indigenous women;

Greater reliance on the technical expertise of lifecycle regulators; and

8. Change to what projects undergo Impact Assessment. “These changes are beneficial for our future. We acknowledge and support these amendments as they were constructed in collaboration with industry and move the conversation beyond party affiliation.”

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