The discussion covered topics such as critical minerals, services, infrastructure, wind energy, and more. Overall, Minister Wilkinson believes Newfoundland and Labrador has an abundance of what is needed for an energy transition and he is enormously optimistic for Canada to take advantage of global opportunities. However, we need to be proactive and take a bit of risk to do so.
Minister Wilkinson encouraged our members to engage – to take the opportunity to bring forward advice and ideas. Here are two of the best ways we can do that right now:
- Critical Minerals Strategy Discussion Paper: Released in June 2022, this Discussion Paper covers Canada's plan to seize the critical minerals opportunity. They are seeking input from provinces and territories, Indigenous Peoples, industry and interested stakeholders, guided by five key outcomes: economic growth and competitiveness; environmental protection and climate action; enhanced security and partnership with allies; advancing reconciliation; and advancing diversity and inclusion. Anyone interested in submitting comments on the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy Discussion Paper may do so by September 15, 2022. Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy will be released in late 2022.
- Regional Energy and Resource Tables: The Regional Energy and Resource Tables are part of a collaborative initiative with the provinces and territories designed to identify, prioritize, and pursue opportunities for sustainable job creation and economic growth for a low-carbon future in the energy, electricity, mining, forestry, and clean technology sectors across all of Canada’s regions. The first phase includes British Columbia, Manitoba, and Newfoundland and Labrador. To start engaging right away, reach out to Minister O’Regan and Minister Parsons, and keep an eye for formal engagement in the coming months.
Overall, we heard from Minister Wilkinson that the opinions and expertise of our Province's business community are welcome, and that he believes we can take a leadership role in defining the economic future of this province. Together, with input from many groups and stakeholders, we can determine how we best use our resources, knowledge, and technology to responsibly reach our full potential as a province as we move away from carbon-intensive industries.
Click here to read NRCAN's news release about the event. |
|
