Mr. Speaker, it is my first time rising in the House since we have come back, and I am very excited to be back.
Issues related to oil sands management are taken seriously. The importance of clean waterways, healthy ecosystems and the well-being of surrounding communities continues to guide federal action in this area, alongside consideration of indigenous rights and interests. Environment and Climate Change Canada is advancing its work on oil sands mining effluent through ongoing structured engagement with indigenous rights holders and organizations, the Government of Alberta, the Government of Northwest Territories, industry representatives, environmental non-governmental organizations and other federal departments. This collaborative approach is intended to ensure that multiple perspectives and expertise inform policy development.
A key component of this work is the Crown-indigenous working group, through which ECCC, or Environment and Climate Change Canada, and indigenous partners are working together to examine options related to the management of oil sands mining process water. The outcome of this work will inform recommendations provided to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada.
Should a regulation authorizing discharge to water be deemed necessary, it would apply only to mine water that has been treated to strict standards, designed to protect the environment, human health and the well-being of indigenous people. Under no circumstances would the releasing of tailings or untreated mine water be permitted. Engagement with partners and stakeholders will continue as considerations advance, if applicable, through the development of any regulatory measures.
In addition, Environment and Climate Change Canada, on behalf of the federal government, jointly leads the oil sands monitoring program with the Government of Alberta, in partnership with indigenous communities and industry. This program aims to improve understanding of the environmental effects of oil sands development through comprehensive ambient monitoring within the region. Monitoring results and reports are made publicly accessible through the oil sands monitoring program portal.
In August 2024, the Government of Canada announced that it would make available nearly $12 million over 10 years to support a Fort Chipewyan health study examining the potential impacts of oil sands activities on community health. Nations have begun this work.
Canada is dedicated to supporting a community-led, transparent and science-based approach to assessing health risks, with indigenous nations leading decision-making on issues that affect their well-being. Safeguarding the health of communities and the integrity of Canada's waters and ecosystems is a fundamental responsibility of this government now and into the future. Addressing the risks associated with tailings management requires sustained effort, collaboration and solutions grounded in sound science. This work is ongoing, and the government will continue to consider and be guided by the recommendations that emerge from all of these collaborative processes.