EDMONTON, AB — Simon Dyer, policy director and
Jennifer Grant, oilsands director of the Pembina Institute made the following
statements in response to the release of the Royal Society of Canada Expert
Panel findings on Environmental and Health Impacts of Canada's Oilsands
Industry:
"Today
the scientists of the Royal Society of Canada confirmed that there are many
serious gaps in the environmental assessment, regulation and monitoring of
Canada's oilsands industry," said Simon Dyer.
"To
date Governments' attempts to address the deficiencies highlighted by the Royal
Society panel have been ineffective, with a much greater emphasis on expanding
oilsands development rather than on ensuring the environment and Canadians are
protected," said Jennifer Grant.
"The Alberta and Federal governments
have already approved a doubling
of oilsands developments. All new approvals should be halted until the
shortcomings are addressed and independent monitoring systems and environmental
limits are put in place," said Simon Dyer.
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Contact:
Simon Dyer (in Edmonton)
Policy Director, Pembina
Institute
Phone: 403-322-3937
Jennifer
Grant (in Calgary)
Oilsands Program Director, Pembina Institute
Phone: 403-678-0449
Background:
Royal Society Report
- Download the Report: The Royal Society of Canada Expert
Panel findings on Environmental and Health Impacts of Canada's Oilsands
Industry on can be download here: http://www.rsc.ca/expertpanels_reports.php
