I will start by citing the very purpose of the Canada Oil and Gas Operations Act. Section 2.1 of the act says that the purpose of the act—which we administer—is to promote safety, the protection of the environment, and conservation of oil and gas resources. By law, our focus can only be that. Our regulations then require us to evaluate thoroughly any proposal by any corporation to drill any well, anywhere in our jurisdiction.
On May 13th, 2010. See this statement in context.