Energy and Mines News:

Oil and Gas Regulatory Improvement Initiative Discussion Paper – This discussion paper outlines possible changes to the regulatory framework for oil and gas activities in British Columbia. It seeks public input as part of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Improvement Initiative (OGRII). The ministry invites interested parties to provide comments specifically referencing the contents of this discussion paper, particularly proposals in Sections G and H. Submissions will be received until February 24, 2006, and may be sent electronically to the following email address: emogriip@gov.bc.ca. For further information see the Discussion Paper or the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources website.

Forest and Environment News:

Ministry of Forests Service Plan – Service Plans are prepared annually by the Ministry of Forests for presentation to the B.C. Legislature under the Budget Transparency and Accountability Act. The Plan outlines the results the ministry expects to achieve in a three-year period with the funds voted to it by the Legislature – thereby providing an accountable basis for judging the ministry’s performance. The Plan provides both the strategic context that guides the ministry’s current activities and the performance measures and targets by which the Legislature and the public will be able to track our progress over time. See the Service Plan.

Mountain Pine Beetle – For the latest information see the government website.

Local Government News:

Useful Handbooks– Staples McDannold Stewart has posted their updated handbook, The Role and Responsibilities of Regional Directors, on their website. In addition, their Handbook for Municipal Councils has sections on Conflict of Interest and Ethics and Procedures for Council Meetings and Public Participation which is relevant to regional directors.

The Winter 2005 issue of their LoGo NoteBook has also been posted, see the website.

Provincial Budget Highlights of Interest to Local Government – The Union of BC Municipalities has posted highlights of interest to local government on their website.