British Columbia and Alberta work together to strengthen resource sector

The two Premiers also announced they would next meet in Vancouver on November 5, following Premier Redford’s address to the Vancouver Board of Trade.

“Opening new markets for Alberta’s resources across Canada and around the world is job one for my government. We are making real progress, together, on continued responsible resource development that creates jobs and long-term growth for Alberta, B.C. and all of Canada.”

– Alberta Premier Alison Redford

“B.C. and Alberta share an understanding on the critical importance of being globally competitive. We are laying the foundation to work together to reach new markets, create jobs and strengthen both our economies, and Canada.”

– B.C. Premier Christy Clark

In July 2013 the Premiers announced the formation of a working group with the shared goals of opening new markets, expanding export opportunities, creating jobs and strengthening the economy of both provinces through the development of the oil and gas sector.

The terms of reference focus on five key areas: harmonizing marine and land spill response; ensuring fair fiscal and economic benefits to both provinces; consulting with First Nations; exploring resource transportation options; and increasing public awareness of responsible resource development. Both provinces will agree on working teams to develop recommendations.

Over the last two months, the provinces have met regularly, building on the progress achieved by the Premiers. The working group has been sharing information and discussing common goals, while also formalizing the terms of reference for the work ahead. The final report with recommendations and an action plan will be released by December 31.

Our government was elected to keep building Alberta, to live within its means and to fight to open new markets for Alberta’s resources. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.

Related information

Backgrounder

B.C.–Alberta Working Group Terms of Reference

On October 15, 2013 Premier Christy Clark and Premier Alison Redford released the terms of reference for a joint working group to open new markets and expand export opportunities for the oil and gas sector.

Mandate

To develop recommendations related to energy exports and opening new export markets for B.C. and Alberta.

Goals

Governance

Both provinces will agree on a set of working teams to develop recommendations around five key areas. Those teams will be led by senior provincial executives, and report directly to both premiers.

Working Teams

The working teams will have members from both jurisdictions and will share information, identify common issues, collaborate on policy and develop recommendations.

B.C. and Alberta have outlined five key areas to focus on:

1. Marine and land-based spill response and preparedness – Identify the features of a world-class prevention and preparedness system, develop a strategy to engage with industry and develop a common response.
2. Sharing the fiscal and economic benefits – Identify potential models for ensuring the economic and fiscal benefits of a heavy oil project reflect the costs and risk borne by each province.
3. Consulting with First Nations – Work together to improve consultation on Western oil projects, identify potential benefit-sharing models for First Nations and develop a strategy for engaging First Nations with industry.
4. Resource Transportation – Examine the costs and benefits of both pipeline and rail transportation option to determine the best infrastructure system.
5. Responsible Resource Development – Identify key areas that need to be addressed and develop a strategy that supports community engagement,  and improved public awareness and understanding of the oil and gas sector.

Timeline

The Deputy Ministers will report regularly to the Premiers in the months leading up to December 31, 2013.

• December 15, 2013 – Draft report to premiers for review
• December 31, 2013 – Final report with recommendations and action plan

Media inquiries

Neala Barton
Office of the Premier of Alberta
587-991-8935

Sam Oliphant
Office of the Premier of British Columbia
250-589-0271

call toll free within Alberta dial 310-0000