June 22, 2015 – BC Chamber Public Affairs Update

The BC Government will be creating a quicker, more coordinated response to land-based hazardous spills in British Columbia, following consultation with industry, First Nations and local government. 

BC Environment Minister Mary Polak says the Province is working on creating an organization that will be able to immediately respond to all land-based spills with trained workers and proper equipment. “We are committed to continuing to grow our economy and create jobs in a way that respects our environment,” Minister Polak said. “British Columbians should not have to choose between the two, and that is why our government is taking decisive action to significantly improve the land-based spill system in British Columbia.” 

The key elements of the new system include: a provincially certified, industry-funded Preparedness and Response Organization (PRO) to make sure people are trained and ready to immediate respond to any spill; new legislative and regulatory requirements for spill preparedness, response and recovery; and geographically based planning and response that will see active participation by First Nations, first responders and local communities. 

The government intends to introduce the new land-based spills legislation in spring 2016. The new regime, including detailed regulations, is expected to be in place by 2017.