Statement by Natural Gas Development Minister Rich Coleman

VICTORIA - "British Columbia has been a leader in safe, responsible natural gas development for more than 50 years. We have the most modern regulations in Canada and one of the most up-to-date regulators in the world for shale gas development.

"As regulator, the BC Oil and Gas Commission (OGC), oversees every aspect of oil and gas operations in B.C. The commission ensures exploration, development, pipeline transportation and reclamation are conducted in an appropriate manner.

"Their geologists, hydrologists, engineers and environmental specialists are industry-leading experts who ensure appropriate regulations and legislation are in place for hydraulic fracturing.

"These rules are designed to prevent fluids used from the hydraulic fracturing process from coming into contact with our potable water wells in the northeast which are found 18 and 150 meters below the surface - fracturing typically occurs much deeper at about 3,500 meters.

"We also require cementing and casing to ensure hydraulic fracturing fluid is completely isolated from groundwater reservoirs.

"As a result, there has never been a reported incident of groundwater contamination as a result of hydraulic fracturing operations in B.C.

"We recognize our water is precious, so our water use is extensively monitored to ensure adequate water is available for communities and the environment.

"As you can see, B.C. has strong regulations in place to protect our people and the environment and we continue to look for improvements to ensure oil and gas development continues to benefit British Columbians."