Information Letter - COVID-19 Environmental Reporting Requirements Deferrals
June 2020
A. Introduction
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Canada, through its regulatory agency Indian Oil and Gas Canada (IOGC) is taking steps to help oil and gas industry companies (industry) who hold contracts on First Nation lands. The measures described below are intended to support surface contract holders continuing their operations as well as ensure continued revenue flow to First Nations at this very critical time. Through delegated authorities under Sec. 5(1)(d) of the Indian Oil and Gas Act R.S.C., 1985, c. I-7, IOGC is temporarily deferring the environmental reporting requirements contingent on accessing First Nation lands.
B. Requirements
1. Non-compliant sites identified in the 2019 Environmental Audits are now due December 31, 2020
IOGC’s environmental audit program requires regulated companies to bring their non-compliant sites into compliance. The deadline to report on compliance is deferred to December 31, 2020.
2. Environmental Audit Reports due December 31, 2020 are now due August 31, 2021
Environmental audit reports due December 31, 2020, as required in surface contracts are now deferred August 31, 2021.
3. Companies with other mandated environmental reporting requirements
Surface contract holders may also request an extension of due dates for other environmental reporting requirements. In this case, please contact the Environmental Analyst responsible for the respective First Nation (see link below) to discuss a new due date.
Surface contract holders are obligated to address any critical issues that may impact the health and safety of the community and the environment. Obligations remain to report environmental issues, emergencies, incidents, production compliance requirements, or any other related matters remain in place. If exceptional circumstances warrant, IOGC may conduct an inspection.
These actions do not defer any other requirements. Please continue to check IOGC’s website for updates or changes.
For further information on Environmental Reporting requirements, please contact:
Environmental Analyst (by First Nation)
General and all other inquiries
aandc.contactiogc.aandc@canada.ca