Steve MacLellan

Quick facts

• Applying for or obtaining a coal lease in no way allows for
  exploration or development. It merely gives a company the ability to
  “stake a claim” to the minerals below.
• All proposed coal projects continue to be subject to stringent
  review by the AER. In many cases, federal impact assessment and joint
  federal-provincial review also occur. Projects can only proceed if
  approved through these rigorous regulatory processes and adhere to all
  existing laws and regulations.
• Current exploration on Category 2 lands will continue, as per the
  1976 coal policy. Of the six coal projects currently being explored on
  Category 2 lands, four began exploration under the 1976 coal policy. Two
  applications were approved after the 1976 coal policy was rescinded.
• Coal lease sales on Category 2 lands remain paused.