Terms of Reference

Science advice in response to information requests submitted by Intervenors to the Enbridge Northern Gateway pipeline project environmental assessment Panel Review Process

Science Special Response Process - Pacific Region

May 29, 2012
Vancouver, BC

Chairperson: Marilyn Joyce

Context

Enbridge Northern Gateway Pipelines Ltd. has proposed to construct and operate the infrastructure for the conveyance and export of oil from Alberta to overseas markets and import of petroleum condensates for use in oil sands production.

Due to regulatory responsibilities, DFO is a responsible authority for this project and is participating in a Joint Review Panel environmental assessment. A Joint Review Panel is an independent body, mandated by the Minister of the Environment and the National Energy Board. The Panel will assess the environmental effects of the proposed project and review the application under both the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act and the National Energy Board Act.

On May 15, 2012, DFO Environmental Assessment and Major Projects Division (EAMP), Pacific Region, requested that DFO Science, Pacific Region provide science based information respecting Information Requests (IRs) submitted to the Enbridge Review Panel, for which DFO Science has the expertice to contribute.

As the IRs, for which Science advice was requested, cover a range of issues and scientific disciplines, separate Science Responses will be developed for each category of IRs, and in some cases specific IRs.

Objectives

The objective of the SSRP is to provide science advice to assit EAMP in developing repronses to the Norther Gateway Review Panel Process Intervenor Questions as outlined in each Science Response to be reviewed.

Expected publications

• CSAS Science Responses (multiple)

Participation

• DFO Science Branch