ERO 019-0556 Comments…

ERO 019-0556

Comments submitted on behalf of Walker Aggregates re Aggregate Resources Act Review (see letter attached with detailed submission).

Overall, Walker agrees with the majority of proposed changes but cautions this must be approached carefully. The Ministry must ensure that the proposed licence system be harmonious between various provincial acts, but remain governed by the MNRF and ARA. Walker supports working and consulting with stakeholders of the community in which the application is proposed for.

Over the past decade, the process has changed and other agencies has increased their influence in the licencing process. MNRF must regain control of the process and set reasonable time lines that keep the process moving along at an acceptable pace.

An update to the Provincial Standards will have to take place in order to effect any change in the notification and consultation requirements.

It can not be stressed enough that governance over the ARA must remain with the MNRF. The protection of close to market aggregate resources must remain a provincial commodity in order to remain effective, economical and sustainable.