Administrative Update to Operations and Maintenance Guidance for Companies

Purpose

The primary objective of this administrative update is to enhance the clarity and content of our Operations and Maintenance Guidance document, ensuring companies are well-informed on their responsibilities regarding routine maintenance activities that result in ground disturbances on identified reserve lands, land claim settlement lands, or Métis settlement lands. This update aims to promote compliance with our Act and regulations by providing clear guidelines for companies to follow. The revised guidance document is now available, and its modifications reflect ongoing efforts to improve the regulatory framework.

Effects on Industry

The administrative update will have a significant impact on industries operating in areas where identified reserve lands, land claim settlement lands, or Métis settlement lands are present. Companies must now notify us of routine maintenance activities that result in ground disturbances, which may lead to increased administrative tasks and potentially affect their operational schedules. The update will also encourage companies to review and revise their internal procedures to ensure compliance with the revised guidance document.

Relevant Stakeholders

The stakeholders affected by this administrative update include:

• Companies operating in areas where identified reserve lands, land claim settlement lands, or Métis settlement lands are present.
• Industry associations and organizations representing companies in these sectors.
• Regulatory bodies responsible for overseeing compliance with our Act and regulations.
• Landowners and communities whose lands may be impacted by the revised guidance document.

Next Steps

To comply with this administrative update, companies must:

• Review their current procedures for routine maintenance activities to ensure they meet the requirements of the revised guidance document.
• Notify us whenever conducting routine maintenance activities that result in ground disturbances on identified reserve lands, land claim settlement lands, or Métis settlement lands.
• Update their internal procedures and training programs to reflect the revised guidelines.

Any Other Relevant Information

The revised Operations and Maintenance Guidance document will be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure it remains relevant and effective. Companies are encouraged to provide feedback and suggestions for improving the guidance document. The update also reflects our commitment to working with industry stakeholders to enhance compliance with our Act and regulations, ultimately promoting a safer and more environmentally responsible operating environment.