By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, Mar. 17 -- An executive committee comprising the heads of western Canada's environmental assessment and regulatory bodies has formalized the review steps for the proposed Mackenzie Delta natural gas pipeline through the Northwest Territories, preparatory to processing an application by July.
The schedule reflects commitments established in a June 2002 "Cooperation Plan" for the project environmental impact assessment (EIA) and regulatory review.
The committee agreed to timetables for setting up offices and coordinating the review processes of the various groups, including a review of participant funding applications, the release of a final draft EIA by June 1, and the appointment of a seven-person joint review panel.
The committee represents the Inuvialuit Game Council, Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board, Mackenzie Valley Land and Water Board, NWT Water Board, Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency, and the National Energy Board.
The Inuvik-based Northern Gas Project Secretariat also was established to coordinate public involvement and ensure that the public has easy and efficient access to information related to the environmental assessment and regulatory review.
