Environmental groups are disappointed with the new oil sands environmental monitoring system.
That’s because bureaucrats will be monitoring the oilsands rather than an independent agency.
The NDP’s Megan Leslie says she doesn’t trust the government to do that.
“I think it’s a big PR move to counter the negative publicity they’ve gotten around the EU fuel directive, or the Keystone XL decision,” she said. “I think it’s a stunt.”
Greenpeace spokesman Mike Hudema says there are some big questions still unanswered.
“Is the plan going to be run by an independent body?” he asked. “Both the Alberta and federal governments have huge credibility issues when it comes to providing reliable data to the public.”
The government announced the new plan on Friday.
The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers praised the announcement, saying it’s a transparent system that will help ensure responsible development.
Published February 6, 2012
