Natural Resources

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss Canadian energy exports, with a focus on First Nations' involvement and benefits. National Chief Cindy Woodhouse-Nepinak of the Assembly of First Nations spoke about the importance of partnership with First Nations in energy projects, emphasizing their rights and the need for their consent. She highlighted the potential economic benefits of projects on First Nations lands but stressed the importance of respecting treaties and addressing infrastructure gaps. Other speakers included Benjamin Green-Stacey, Director of Economic Development, and Dr. Graeme Reed, Strategic Advisor, both from the Assembly of First Nations, who provided further details on economic development and consultation issues. Committee members raised questions about consultation processes, the duty of the federal government to consult with First Nations, and the effectiveness of current funding programs. They discussed the need for capacity building within First Nations communities to enable their participation in major projects. The National Chief emphasized the importance of including First Nations in discussions and ensuring they benefit from resource development on their lands. She also mentioned the need to address historical injustices and ensure First Nations are treated fairly in economic partnerships. The committee also discussed inviting Gregory Ebel, President and CEO of Enbridge, to a future meeting to discuss energy exports. A motion was put forward to invite Mr. Ebel to discuss the company's perspective on building pipelines in Canada, particularly regarding regulatory challenges. This motion was amended to allow Mr. Ebel to bring support staff from his company. The committee agreed to invite Mr. Ebel to a future meeting. Finally, a motion was introduced to hold additional meetings regarding Canadian Natural Resources Limited's decision to defer an $8.25 billion mine expansion. The motion proposed inviting several witnesses, including representatives from Canadian Natural Resources Limited, government ministers, and industry experts. However, a motion to adjourn the debate on this topic was passed, so this will be discussed at a later date.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss Canadian energy exports. The committee heard from representatives from the Canadian Association of Energy Contractors, Canada's Building Trades Unions, and Svante Technologies Inc. These speakers discussed the importance of energy exports for the Canadian economy, job creation, and Canada's role as a global energy leader. They also talked about the need for infrastructure development, competitive policies, and innovation in the energy sector. Mark Scholz from the Canadian Association of Energy Contractors emphasized the role of drilling and service rig companies in creating jobs and supporting communities. He called for policies that would encourage investment and streamline regulations. Sean Strickland from Canada's Building Trades Unions highlighted the importance of major energy infrastructure projects for creating opportunities for skilled workers and apprentices. He advocated for fair wages, apprenticeship requirements, and local hiring obligations on projects that receive government investment. Brett Henkel from Svante Technologies discussed the potential for Canada to become a leader in carbon management. He called for policies that would support the development of carbon capture and storage technologies. Committee members questioned the witnesses on a range of issues, including regulatory barriers, the role of public funding, and the need for indigenous participation in energy projects. The committee also heard from Victoria Pruden, president of the Métis National Council, who spoke about the importance of Métis participation in the energy sector and the need for distinctions-based funding to support equitable access to opportunities. The committee discussed the importance of balancing energy exports with environmental considerations and the need to ensure that indigenous communities benefit from energy development. They also talked about the potential for Canada to become a leader in both conventional and clean energy. The committee agreed to consider the witnesses' testimony as it continues its study of Canadian energy exports. The committee will also receive additional documentation from the Métis National Council for analysis.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss proposed changes to a proposed law about implementing the budget. Specifically, they talked about clauses that would extend the length of licenses for exporting liquefied natural gas (LNG) from 40 to 50 years. The goal is to attract investment and help Canada become a major energy supplier. The Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Tim Hodgson, explained that these changes would make Canada more competitive in the global LNG market. He said that longer licenses would give project owners more time to earn back their investments, especially in projects that reduce emissions. Some committee members, like Shannon Stubbs, were concerned about the slow pace of project approvals and wanted to ensure that projects are developed in partnership with Indigenous communities. The committee also heard from Tracy Sletto, the head of the Canada Energy Regulator, and Erin O'Brien from the Department of Natural Resources. They explained how the proposed changes would affect their work and how Canada's LNG sector can help the country meet its economic and environmental goals. Some committee members raised concerns about how increasing LNG exports could impact Canada's commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. Ultimately, the committee agreed to send a letter back to the finance committee indicating they discussed the proposed law and did not propose any amendments. They also planned to review a draft report on critical minerals at their next meeting.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss Canadian energy exports. The first panel focused on nuclear energy and energy storage. David Novog from McMaster University spoke about the need for workforce development in the nuclear sector to meet growing demands. Andrew Thiele from Energy Storage Canada emphasized the importance of energy storage for Canada's electricity future and industrial opportunities, suggesting pragmatic federal policies and provincial planning. Committee members discussed topics such as lithium battery production, tax credits for clean electricity, and the role of energy storage in supporting renewable energy and interties. The second panel shifted to the Impact Assessment Act and the oil and gas sector. Adam Legge from the Business Council of Alberta argued for a comprehensive legislative overhaul of the Impact Assessment Act to enable efficient project approvals. Eric Nuttall from Ninepoint Partners stressed the importance of increasing Canadian energy exports, highlighting a looming global supply crisis and the economic benefits of the oil and gas sector. Committee members debated issues such as the economic impact of oil and gas, the role of government regulations, and the need for pipeline infrastructure. During the meeting, a motion was introduced and amended regarding Jackson Wijaya, owner of Asia Pulp and Paper and sole shareholder of Domtar. The motion, as amended, invites Wijaya to testify before the committee regarding the impact of mill closures on employees and the company's intentions for other facilities in Quebec and Canada. The testimony will be included in the committee's report on the forestry sector study. Key recommendations included optimizing investment tax credits for energy storage, expanding deployment programs, and pairing restrictions with industrial policy to build domestic supply chains. There was also discussion on the need for cultural change within the public service to view project approvals through an economic and prosperity lens. The committee acknowledged the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental and social considerations.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss Canada's energy exports. The committee heard from Lisa Baiton, president of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP), Catherine Swift, president of the Coalition of Concerned Manufacturers and Businesses of Canada, and Francis Bradley, president of Electricity Canada. Baiton argued that expanding Canadian oil and gas exports is important for strengthening the economy and national sovereignty. She said that Canada should aim to be a global energy superpower, but current policies are making it difficult to attract investment and compete with other countries. She expressed concern about proposed changes to methane regulations and industrial carbon pricing, which she believes will increase costs for Canadian producers. Swift stated that the manufacturing and energy sectors are closely linked, and that policies that harm the energy sector also hurt manufacturing. She criticized green policies that increase electricity costs and make Canadian businesses less competitive. She also expressed concern about Canada's relationship with China and its impact on the manufacturing sector. Bradley highlighted the role of electricity in enabling energy exports and emphasized the need to modernize regulations and mobilize capital to build more electricity infrastructure. He also discussed the importance of interconnections between provinces and with the United States. Committee members questioned the witnesses about various issues, including the impact of clean electricity regulations, the role of government in supporting energy projects, and the challenges of building new infrastructure. There were no specific decisions made during the meeting, but the committee members indicated that they would continue to study the issue of Canadian energy exports.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss Canada's energy exports. The committee heard from Normand Mousseau, a professor at the Université de Montréal, and Pierre-Olivier Pineau, a professor at HEC Montréal, about Canada's position as an energy exporter. Mousseau argued that despite being a major energy producer, Canada isn't an energy superpower because it lacks influence on global prices and lags in adopting modern renewable energy technologies. Pineau highlighted that Canada's energy exports are largely dominated by crude oil and that the country's economy, particularly Alberta's, is vulnerable to fluctuating oil prices. He recommended focusing on energy productivity and developing sustainable markets beyond hydrocarbons. Both agreed Canada is not an energy superpower.

The Canadian parliamentary committee on Natural Resources met to discuss the management of Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) by U.S. companies. The committee heard from Ole Hendrickson, President of the Ottawa River Institute, and Christian Leuprecht, a professor at the Royal Military College of Canada and Queen's University, in the first panel. Hendrickson raised concerns about the government-owned, contractor-operated (GOCO) model, stating it creates risks like increased costs and poor waste disposal, especially with U.S. corporations involved. Leuprecht questioned the lack of competition in awarding the CNL contract to a U.S.-led group, highlighting potential issues with value for money, Canadian sovereignty, national security, and accountability. He suggested an independent review of the contract and a possible return to a Crown corporation model for CNL. During the second panel, Stephen Aplin, appearing as an individual, expressed strong concerns about handing control of Canada's nuclear research to U.S. companies, especially given geopolitical tensions and potential conflicts of interest. Eric McGoey, Vice-President of Corporate Affairs at CNL, defended the GOCO model, emphasizing that AECL retains ownership of assets and intellectual property, and CNL operates under Canadian laws. He also highlighted the Canadian presence and expertise within the companies involved in the consortium. Committee members questioned the witnesses on various aspects of the contract, including potential conflicts of interest, the impact on Canadian jobs and research, and the protection of intellectual property. Concerns were raised about the influence of U.S. interests on CNL's priorities and the potential for American executives to prioritize U.S. interests over Canadian ones. Some committee members expressed skepticism about the transparency and accountability of the contract awarding process. The committee discussed the need for greater oversight of AECL and CNL, the suitability of the GOCO model, and the implications of relying on U.S. companies for managing Canada's nuclear facilities. There was a call for a third-party assessment of the costs and benefits of the current arrangement. A committee member requested that Mr. McGoey provide a written response to claims made by previous witnesses. The committee will move forward with writing a report with recommendations, potentially including a review of the contract and the GOCO model. The committee acknowledged the need to balance economic considerations with national security and sovereignty concerns in the management of Canada's nuclear assets.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss the management of Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) by U.S. companies. Fred Dermarkar, President and CEO of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), explained that AECL owns the sites and assets, while a private sector organization (currently Nuclear Laboratory Partners of Canada, or NLPC) manages the day-to-day operations. He emphasized that AECL is ultimately responsible and that the vast majority of expenses are within Canada, buying expertise in managing complex nuclear sites. He also stated that the procurement process was fair, open, and transparent. Committee member Corey Tochor (Conservative) raised concerns about a potential "all-American takeover" of CNL and the risk to Canada's supply of medical isotopes. He questioned the fairness of the bidding process and whether the government had influenced the contract award. Dermarkar responded that the Competition Bureau had issued a “no-action” letter, indicating it had no intent to take further action at this time, and that strict conflict-of-interest rules are in place. Other committee members, including John-Paul Danko (Liberal), focused on the benefits of the contract, the expertise gained from U.S. companies, and the independence of AECL in awarding the contract. Patrick Bonin (Bloc Québécois) questioned the notification process for municipalities along the route used to ship spent fuel from Gentilly-1 to Chalk River. Cheryl Gallant (Conservative) raised concerns about protecting Canadian intellectual property and ensuring no conflicts of interest exist within the consortium. Maude-Émilie Pagé, acting vice-president, indigenous and stakeholder relations at AECL, addressed questions about informing municipalities of shipments and clarified that Canadian policy prohibits importing foreign radioactive waste. The committee also discussed the decommissioning of Gentilly-1 and the safety standards for waste disposal. Ultimately, a motion was made by Mario Simard (Bloc Québécois) to adjourn the meeting, which was passed with a vote of 5 to 4. This cut the meeting short, despite some committee members' objections.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss the forestry industry. The committee heard from several witnesses about the challenges and opportunities facing the industry, including trade disputes with the United States, the need for market diversification, and the importance of sustainable forest management practices. Geoff Cape from Assembly Corporation talked about the potential for wood-based manufactured housing and the need for government support to scale up this industry. Susan Yurkovich from Canfor Corporation highlighted the financial burden of U.S. duties and tariffs and suggested ways the government could support companies in the near term, such as a capital investment fund and expedited tax refunds. Scott Hughes from Hupaco Wood Products emphasized the importance of fighting for access to the U.S. market while also diversifying to other markets. He also spoke about the benefits of using wood in construction for carbon neutrality. During the question period, committee members asked about the impact of U.S. duties on workers and communities, the potential for market diversification, and the role of government in supporting the industry. Corey Tochor questioned witnesses about the impact of the carbon tax and the government's approach to trade negotiations. John-Paul Danko asked about recommendations to ensure that private sector, institutional, and municipal projects are also using primarily Canadian products. Mario Simard inquired about a proposal for the government to buy back a portion of the countervailing and anti-dumping duties. Jake Power from PowerWood Corporation spoke about the importance of trade certainty with the U.S. and suggested policies to strengthen value-added manufacturing. Martin Luckert from the University of Alberta discussed the challenges of climate change and trade disruptions and the need for federal forest policy. Jeff Bromley from the United Steelworkers highlighted the impact of U.S. duties on jobs and communities and the need for a trade deal that supports the industry. The committee discussed the need for a long-term managed trade agreement with the U.S., support for value-added production, and sustainable forest management practices. Committee members discussed the importance of supporting Canadian goods and the impact of government policies on the forestry sector. They also discussed the need for expanded EI access for workers and the potential for a program similar to the emergency wage subsidy. The committee members agreed to submit briefs for things that they didn't get a chance to say during the meeting. The committee will be giving drafting instructions to the analysts for the report on this study at the next meeting. The deadline to submit witnesses to the clerk for the energy study is December 5th.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss the challenges and potential solutions for the forestry industry in Canada. Key speakers included Steven Rustja, President of the Association of Lumber Remanufacturers of Ontario, Stéphane Renou, President and CEO of FPInnovations, and Michel Lessard, President of GreenFirst Forest Products Inc. The discussion focused on the impact of U.S. tariffs on Canadian lumber, the need for innovation and diversification within the industry, and the importance of government support to help companies survive and thrive. Steven Rustja emphasized the severe impact of U.S. duties on lumber remanufacturers, arguing that these duties unfairly penalize Canadian companies. He urged the Canadian government to prioritize a negotiated settlement with the U.S. and to provide immediate financial support to keep the industry afloat until a deal can be reached. Stéphane Renou highlighted the need for transformation within the forestry sector, emphasizing the importance of regional approaches and innovation at the mill level. He also stressed the need for government and industry to work together to modernize and diversify the industry. Michel Lessard spoke about the challenges faced by GreenFirst Forest Products, including the impact of U.S. tariffs and weak demand. He called for rapid access to government support programs, diversification of markets, and a coherent set of measures to support the industry. Committee members discussed various solutions, including buying back a portion of the countervailing duties, providing wage subsidies, and increasing the use of wood in domestic construction. The committee explored potential next steps, including submitting proposals for regional development and innovation, and organizing a trip to the U.S. to discuss the benefits of the Canadian forestry industry with American construction sector representatives. The committee recognized the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate action to support the forestry industry and protect jobs.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss supplementary budget estimates for Natural Resources Canada. Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Tim Hodgson presented the proposed budget increases, highlighting investments in critical minerals, major projects, and initiatives supporting Indigenous participation in resource development. He emphasized the government's focus on leveraging Canada's natural resources to strengthen the economy and enhance energy security in a changing global landscape. The minister also addressed concerns about trade relations with the U.S. and the importance of diversifying export markets. Committee members questioned the minister on the Major Projects Office, the tanker ban, and the awarding of contracts to American companies for managing Canadian Nuclear Laboratories. Conservative committee members pressed the Minister on a contract awarded to American companies to manage Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the impact on Canadian technology and sovereignty. They proposed a study on the decision, but Liberal members moved to adjourn the debate. The Minister defended the contract, stating that the process was run independently and that the Competition Bureau is reviewing the contract. Officials from Natural Resources Canada answered questions about the Major Projects Office, the tanker ban, and the critical minerals strategy. They discussed the process for project referrals to the MPO and the criteria for assessing project eligibility. They also outlined the services and assistance offered to mining project proponents, including funding for infrastructure and exploration. The committee ultimately voted on and passed the supplementary estimates (B) on division.

The Natural Resources Committee met to discuss issues facing the forestry industry. The first panel included Rick Jeffery from the Canadian Wood Council, who emphasized the importance of using wood in construction to help with housing affordability and carbon neutrality. He suggested the government could help by supporting modern construction methods and promoting wood products in public projects. Mayor Kermit Dahl of Campbell River spoke about the challenges facing forestry in British Columbia, including mill closures and job losses. He called for a new softwood lumber agreement with the U.S. and streamlined regulations. Both witnesses emphasized the need for government support to stabilize the industry and encourage investment. The second panel featured Dr. Robert Froese, a forest scientist, who argued that well-managed forestry is essential for healthy forests and can help reduce wildfires. He stated that responsible harvesting is a tool to reduce hazardous fuels. Dr. Jamie Stephen from TorchLight Bioresources discussed the potential for bioenergy to support the forestry industry and reduce carbon emissions. He highlighted the success of Nordic countries in using bioenergy and suggested Canada could follow their example by investing in bioenergy projects with carbon capture and storage. During the meeting, committee members discussed various issues, including the softwood lumber dispute with the U.S., the need for government support for the forestry industry, and the potential for using wood in construction. There was also discussion about the importance of managing forests to reduce the risk of wildfires. A motion was introduced to condemn American tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber, but debate was adjourned. Key points raised included the potential for wood construction to address housing shortages and reduce carbon emissions, the challenges facing forestry communities in British Columbia, and the need for government policies that support sustainable forest management and bioenergy development. The committee is looking for ways to support the forestry industry and ensure its long-term sustainability. No decisions were made during the meeting, but the committee heard from a variety of witnesses and discussed a range of issues related to the forestry industry. The committee will continue to study these issues and consider potential recommendations for the government.

The Canadian parliamentary committee on Natural Resources met to discuss the forestry industry. The first speaker was Terry Skiffington, CEO of Kap Paper Inc., who talked about the challenges his company faces due to declining newsprint markets and trade wars. He mentioned that Kap Paper is on the verge of closure but is working on a plan to transition to engineered wood products. He asked for government support to complete this transformation. Committee members asked Mr. Skiffington about tariffs, fiber access, and the potential for a softwood lumber deal. Mr. Skiffington explained that while his company doesn't directly pay tariffs, the tariffs on softwood lumber are hurting the sawmills that supply him with chips. He also noted that there is plenty of fiber available in his area. He said a softwood lumber deal would help the sawmills, but a solution is needed for the chips and biomass. The second panel included Steeve St-Gelais, president of Boisaco Inc., and Pierre Cormier and Julien Lampron from Groupe Rémabec. They discussed the softwood lumber dispute with the U.S. and the need for the government to recognize the importance of the forestry sector. They also talked about the need to promote innovation and encourage the use of wood in construction. They proposed a buyback program for countervailing duties paid to the U.S. to help companies access cash flow. Committee members discussed the impact of tariffs, the potential for bioproducts, and the need for government support. The witnesses emphasized the importance of integrated complexes that use all parts of the tree. They also discussed the need for a vision for the future of the forestry sector that includes First Nations and addresses the issue of species at risk. The committee agreed to invite the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources to appear before them to discuss supplementary estimates.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss the challenges facing the forestry industry, especially in British Columbia. Witnesses from various forestry organizations spoke about the impact of high U.S. tariffs on Canadian lumber, mill closures, and job losses. They emphasized the need for a new softwood lumber agreement with the United States and for the Canadian government to provide support to the industry. Kim Haakstad from the BC Council of Forest Industries highlighted the importance of forestry to many communities in B.C. and the need for a "Team Canada" approach to support the sector. Bruce St.John from the Canada Wood Group discussed the importance of diversifying export markets to countries like China and Japan. Andrew Rielly from the Independent Wood Processors Association of BC described the financial strain on small and medium-sized companies due to the tariffs.

The Canadian parliamentary committee on Natural Resources met to discuss the challenges facing the forestry industry. Witnesses from various organizations, including the Canadian Wood Pallet and Container Association, the Forest Products Association of Canada, Chantiers Chibougamau, the Quebec Forest Industry Council, and Unifor, shared their perspectives. A major concern was the impact of U.S. trade duties on Canadian softwood lumber, with combined duties and tariffs exceeding 45%, leading to job losses and mill closures. Speakers emphasized the need for the Canadian government to prioritize the forestry sector in trade negotiations with the U.S., alongside steel, aluminum, and energy. They also discussed the importance of supporting smaller companies and contractors within the forestry supply chain. Scott Geffros from the Canadian Wood Pallet and Container Association highlighted the importance of wood packaging in the supply chain and asked for it to be recognized as critical infrastructure. Derek Nighbor from the Forest Products Association of Canada stressed the need for a "Team Canada" approach to address the trade dispute and called for streamlined federal-provincial regulations. Frédéric Verreault from Chantiers Chibougamau discussed the challenges faced by subcontractors and small businesses in the industry. Michel Vincent from the Quebec Forest Industry Council emphasized the need for the government to see the forestry sector as valuable as other key sectors. Daniel Cloutier from Unifor emphasized the need for income support measures for workers facing job losses and slowdowns. Several solutions were proposed to support the forestry industry. One idea was for the government to buy back a portion of the anti-dumping and countervailing duties paid by Canadian companies. This would provide immediate financial relief and help maintain production activities. Another suggestion was to promote domestic demand for Canadian wood by revising the National Building Code to encourage the use of wood in construction. Committee members discussed the potential of a national residential construction project to increase demand for Canadian wood products. There was also discussion of the need to diversify export markets and invest in innovation and modernization within the forestry sector. The committee members discussed the importance of supporting the forestry industry, given its significant contribution to the Canadian economy and the livelihoods of many communities. They recognized the need for the government to take swift action to address the challenges facing the sector and to ensure its long-term sustainability. The committee agreed to consider the recommendations made by the witnesses and to continue its study of the forestry industry.