Madam Chair, the expert panel on the National Energy Board commissioned by the government has said that one of the most significant reasons, if not the most significant reason, the public noted distrust of the NEB was the makeup of its board. There was a strong perception that the board overrepresented oil and gas interests. Canadians voiced a desire for broader experience and expertise at the strategic level.
That advice cost the Government of Canada over $1 million. I did an access to information request to find that out. Expert panels aren't cheap. These were very well-qualified people, including Brenda Kenny from the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association.
The strong recommendation based on that advice is to improve and entrench in the legislation a requirement for a broader level of relevant expertise and experience, including from such things as climate science, renewable energy, community development, as well as understanding traditional knowledge of the indigenous peoples.
Thank you.