— Photo courtesy Shell Canada. On Friday, December 6th, the Federal government approved the Royal Dutch Shell expansion project at its Jackpine Mine
— Photo courtesy Shell Canada.
On Friday, December 6th, the Federal government approved the Royal Dutch Shell expansion project at its Jackpine Mine, located approximately 70 kilometres north of Fort McMurray, Alberta.
In her decision statement, environment minister Leona Aglukkaq did raise concerns about environmental damage the project could have in the Wood Buffalo region, but concluded that “the significant adverse environmental effects that the designated project is likely to cause, are justified in the circumstances.”
The approval comes with a list of conditions regarding the environment and aboriginal consultation that Shell must follow, or it could face penalties of up to $400,000 per day for a continuing offence.
The company must implement fish and aquatic wildlife monitoring programs, avoid “migratory bird mortality,” and inform Aboriginal groups about water and air quality. Shell must also include an “odour management plan.” This condition is listed under a section on protecting aboriginal health.
“We are now reviewing the recommendations and proposed conditions attached to the approval,” wrote Stephen Doolan, a Shell spokesperson, in a brief emailed response to the Fort McMurray Today newspaper.
“Proceeding with the project is subject to a final investment decision by Shell and the AOSP (Athabasca Oil Sands Project) joint venture owners.”
In November 2012, Shell promoted the economic merits of the project during a joint review panel, and pledged to repair any environmental damage.
The expansion will expand daily oil production by 100,000 barrels, bringing mining production to a total of 300,000 barrels per day.
Source: Fort McMurray Today
