Dear Editor:
A recent article in the Rimbey Review wrongly suggests stalling oil sands development would help resolve a myriad of issues, including the need for new markets for Canada’s oil and gas, pipeline construction projects, temporary foreign worker rules, aboriginal consultation practices and perceived concerns about international image.
None of those issues would go away. Developing the oil sands is continuing to create jobs, economic development and to support social programs and infrastructure.
Benefits to Canadians based on industry growth projections include more than 450,000 direct and indirect jobs over the next 25 years and a contribution to the economy of about $155 billion per year, including tax and royalty payments that governments can use to help fund services such as education and health care. No growth, no new benefits.
Consistently, our polls say a strong majority of Canadians believe oil sands can and should be produced while effectively managing the environmental impact. The industry agrees. And for example, we’ve cut per-barrel oil sands GHG emissions by 28 per cent since 1990.
The best way to improve performance is by working day by day, investing in innovation and putting what you learn to work. That’s how we can resolve challenging issues, develop resources responsibly and ensure Canadians benefit.
You don’t get there by stalling development.
Greg Stringham, vice-president
Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers
Calgary, Alberta