Again, to pick up on my remarks at our most recent meeting, a number of stakeholders have made their wishes quite clear. I'm thinking, for example, of East Coast Environmental Law; Normand Mousseau, professor at the Université de Montréal and scientific director of the Trottier institute; and certain representatives of the first nations. They basically told us that if this were truly an energy transition project, it would align with the philosophy of this transition, meaning that it would prioritize low‑carbon energy.
Our amendment is as follows:
59.1 The act is amended by adding the following after the heading “Licences and Authorizations” after section 137.1: 137.2(1) If more than one application is made under section 138 or 138.01 for the same area, the Regulator shall take the following factors into account in making its decision: (a) the objectives and obligations set out in the Canadian Net‑Zero Emissions Accountability Act; and (b) proposed or potential renewable energy projects in that area. (2) If applications are made for both a petroleum‑related work or activity and a work or activity relating to a renewable energy project in the same area, the Regulator shall give priority to the work or activity relating to a renewable energy project.
I think that this amendment would help bring the bill more in line with the reality of the energy transition.