FINA Committee Report

Mr. James Rajotte, M.P.

Chair

Standing Committee on Finance

House of Commons

Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0A6

Dear Colleague:

As you are aware, my colleague, the Honourable James M. Flaherty, Minister of Finance, introduced the Jobs, Growth and Long-term Prosperity Act as Bill C-38 on April 26, 2012.  Part 3 of this bill advanced important changes to support the Government’s plan for Responsible Resource Development. 

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to thank the Sub-committee of the Standing Committee on Finance (the Committee) for its work on the review of Part 3 of Bill C-38.  The review provided an important opportunity to hear from stakeholders on the Government’s plan to promote long-term responsible economic growth and job creation, while protecting the natural environment and health of Canadians.

I have reviewed the Committee’s report entitled, “Report on Part 3 on Bill C-38 (Responsible Resource Development)”.  I was pleased that the Committee shared the Government’s firm belief that Canada must have in place a modern, streamlined, efficient regulatory system for major projects.  I welcome and strongly concur with the Committee’s conclusion that the measures contained in Part 3 of Bill C-38 will allow Canada to address this challenge in an effective and efficient manner. 

With Royal Assent of Bill C-38 on June 29, 2012, I am pleased to note that the Government has complied with the Committee’s recommendation that the clauses contained in Part 3 of Bill C-38 be carried as written.  Therefore, pursuant to Standing Order 109, the Government’s response to the Committee’s report has been forwarded today to Ms. Audrey O’Brien, Clerk of the House of Commons.

Thank you again to the Committee for its work on this important initiative which will benefit all Canadians.

Yours sincerely,

The Honourable Joe Oliver, P.C., M.P.