Forests
Improving permit process accelerates B.C. growth
VICTORIA - To accelerate economic development and job growth in British Columbia, the Province focused this year on improving the permitting process in the natural resource sector.
This is just one more example of significant progress made by government in the last year to improve the lives of British Columbians and their families by creating and protecting jobs, by becoming more open and transparent, and by continuing to be fiscally responsible in these uncertain economic times.
Through 'Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan', the Province is investing almost $24 million to reduce the current permitting backlog, develop a framework for cumulative effects of resource development and improve engagement with First Nations on projects. Notice of Work permits will be reduced by 80 per cent by Aug. 31, 2012, and both the Land and Water Act authorization backlogs will be reduced by 50 per cent by Dec. 31, 2012.
Quick Facts:In 2011, the Province:
- Launched the Major Projects BC website with information on major resource development projects.
- Opened 12 new FrontCounter BC offices in communities across B.C. to improve client access to government services in the natural resource sector.
- Launched the public consultation on a new Natural Resource Road Act to establish more consistent standards for resource roads.
- Introduced the Natural Resource Compliance Act, to start the integration of compliance and enforcement processes across the natural resource sector.
Learn More:
- Share your ideas on the BC Jobs Plan: http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/
- View current projects in the application stage at Major Projects BC: http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/major_projects/
- Find a FrontCounter BC near you:http://www.frontcounterbc.gov.bc.ca/
- Add your voice to the discussion on the Natural Resource Road Act: http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/mof/nrra/
- Visit the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations: http://www.gov.bc.ca/for/
Contact:
Brennan Clarke
Media Relations
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261
