Amendments proposed for Environmental Act

The federal government has tabled amendments to the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA).

The changes, which are based on recommendations of the Regulatory Advisory Committee (RAC), are supported by Mining Association of Canada (MAC) and the Canadian Environmental Network.

“The amendments, while not all the industry was seeking, will add greater clarity, certainty and timeliness to the regulatory process for resource development,” says MAC President Gordon Peeling.

The RAC consists of representatives of the mining industry, environmental organizations, Aboriginal groups and government. Committee members reviewed the CEAA over five years.

“The proposed amendments are a step forward,” states Justyna Laurie Lean, who represents the MAC on the committee. “We also believe that additional improvements are possible, and the MAC will examine opportunities for working with its RAC partners before parliament.”