USA, Canada Sign MoU on Arctic Offshore Drilling Cooperation

As part of the U.S. Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement’s (BSEE) commitment to safe and environmentally responsible offshore operations, BSEE is teaming with Canada’s National Energy Board (NEB) to bring the best available information to offshore energy decisions in the Arctic.

BSEE Director Jim Watson and NEB Chair and CEO Gaétan Caron signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Tuesday at BSEE’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. that encourages information sharing and cooperation between the two regulators on government energy policy, regulatory development, specific energy projects and best practices.

“BSEE and NEB both have a shared commitment to reduce the risks associated with offshore drilling in the Arctic,” said BSEE Director Watson. “This agreement firmly establishes a means for our two agencies to share data and experiences as expeditiously as possible so that we can identify and react effectively to industry-wide risks.”

“The NEB is pleased to enter into this agreement with BSEE. It lays the groundwork for cooperation on matters of mutual interest between our two agencies, and it’s an important step in sharing best practices and supporting effective regulatory outcomes,” said NEB Chair and CEO Caron.

The MOU outlines required information sharing activities to include meetings, exchanges of information and staff, emergency management planning and exercises and joint training initiatives. A major benefit of the partnership will be the sharing of developing trends, technologies and science that may impact the regulatory activities and responsibilities of both Participants. The MOU is for the next five years with the option for renewal for an additional five years.

[mappress]
February 7, 2013