The Operator recognizes the importance of communications with federal, provincial and municipal governments, regulatory agencies, stakeholders and the public and is developing a communications/stakeholder plan to manage these activities. The Hebron Project has already met with representatives from each of these groups and will continue to expand its contact list to ensure affected and interested individuals are provided with timely Project information and have an opportunity to provide feedback.
The Project Team will undertake a public outreach program in support of the CEAA process and also in preparation of its Development Application.
In support of the CEAA process, the Operator has commenced engagement with relevant regulatory agencies including the C-NLOPB, Environment Canada, DFO and others. The Operator will pro-actively engage local non-government environmental organizations including, but not limited to the Natural History Society; World Wildlife Fund; One Ocean; Fish, Food and Allied Workers (FFAW) and the Seafood Producers' Association. The Operator will respond to other parties that express an interest in the environmental aspects of the proposed Project.
The Operator intends to conduct open houses in the Province, likely starting in the May - June 2009 timeframe. The purpose of the open houses will be to present the key components of the proposed development of the Hebron Field and solicit the public's comments. The open houses will be advertised in local newspapers, on local radio stations and the project website to encourage maximum participation. The Operator will meet with the local leaders in the communities that could potentially be affected by the Hebron Project to get first hand information regarding their interests and concerns.
Stakeholder workshops (on Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador benefits, socio-economic issues, the environment, fisheries, and other appropriate subjects) will be arranged to discuss interests and concerns of local communities and stakeholders. The meetings and conversations will be fully documented and concerns will be addressed in regulatory documents filed by the Operator with regulatory authorities.
The Hebron Project website will be a valuable and effective communication tool that will be used to help foster open communication with the Hebron Project stakeholders. It will contain a broad description of all elements of the Hebron Project and contain a toll-free number where people throughout Newfoundland and Labrador can contact Hebron Project representatives for more information or to provide ideas and suggestions. It is the Operator's intention to maintain open lines of communication with the public, government, regulators, communities and other stakeholders throughout the Hebron Project.
Through formal and informal meetings and gatherings, the Operator will introduce the Hebron Project and its merits to the public and key stakeholders and provide them with an opportunity for input. The Operator will help identify key issues and concerns and facilitate constructive dialogue.