Public Comments and Federal Funding Accessible for Prince Rupert LNG Project (Canada)

The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency is conducting a federal environmental assessment for the proposed Pacific NorthWest LNG Project located in British Columbia. The Agency invited the public to comment on which aspects of the environment may be affected by this project and what should be examined during the environmental assessment.

The public can review and comment on the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) Guidelines dated April 8, 2013. This document identifies the potential environmental effects to be taken into consideration and the information and analysis that need to be included in the proponent’s EIS.

The deadline to submit written comments has been extended. Comments received by September 20, 2013 will be considered. Individuals and groups who already submitted comments do not need to resubmit as these are kept on file for careful consideration throughout the Project’s review.

Federal Funding Available

The Agency is also making available funding to support the participation of the public and of Aboriginal groups in the federal environmental assessment of the Pacific NorthWest LNG Project. Funding is available for eligible individuals and groups to enable their participation in upcoming steps of the environmental assessment such as consultation related to the Environmental Impact Statement and consultation on the draft Environmental Assessment Report.

The deadline to submit a funding application has been extended. Applications received by September 20, 2013, will be considered. Individuals and groups who already submitted an application do not need to reapply. Recipients and the amounts of funding allocated will be announced at a later date.

As part of the strengthened and modernized Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 put in place to support the government’s Responsible Resource Development Initiative, the Agency is conducting a federal environmental assessment of this project.

This project is being assessed using a science-based approach. If the project is permitted to proceed to the next phase, it will continue to be subject to Canada’s strong environmental laws, rigorous enforcement and follow-up and increased fines.

The proposed project

Pacific NorthWest LNG Ltd. is proposing to construct and operate a liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility and marine terminal near Prince Rupert, within the District of Port Edward. The Pacific NorthWest LNG facility would be located on Lelu Island. The proposed project would convert natural gas to LNG for export to Pacific Rim markets in Asia.

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LNG World News Staff, August 22, 2013; Image: Pacific NorthWest LNG; CEAA