Discussions on hydraulic fracturing regulations to continue into 18th Legislative Assembly

YELLOWKNIFE (September 17, 2015) – Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) David Ramsay confirmed today that discussions on proposed hydraulic fracturing filing regulations will continue in the next Legislative Assembly.

“From our engagement with the public over the spring and summer, it is clear that NWT residents want to discuss this issue further,” said Minister Ramsay. ”We have heard this message and will take the time needed to ensure we make the necessary preparations to sustainably and safely manage oil and gas development in the Northwest Territories”.

Draft regulations setting out filing requirements for proposed oil and gas projects were developed earlier this year in keeping with the Government of the Northwest Territories’ commitment to strengthen and refine regulatory processes following devolution. Between April and June 2015, the Departments of ITI, Environment and Natural Resources and Lands conducted 14 public engagement sessions in 12 communities throughout the territory, hearing input from residents, businesses, and industry about the proposed regulations. Residents were also able to submit comments by mail and email.

“Responsible resource development, including oil and gas development, is a major component of the NWT economy and essential to creating a prosperous, sustainable future for our residents,” said Minister Ramsay. “We recognize that people want more time to think about how our resources are best managed and developed. This engagement also ties in with the work we are doing to develop an NWT Oil and Gas Strategy, which will not only help us to unlock the petroleum potential of the NWT, but to do so in a way that is environmentally responsible and benefits our communities.”

The GNWT is currently in the process of developing an NWT Oil and Gas Strategy. Part of that Strategy is considering improvements to the regulatory regime to ensure that any future development employing hydraulic fracturing will be done safely to assure protection of our environment and the health and safety of our people. 

Media inquiries:
Andrew Livingstone
Senior Cabinet Communications Advisor
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: 867-669-2302
Email: andrew_livingstone@gov.nt.ca