By Canadian Press

Inquiry continues

Inquiry into oil and gas opposition groups extended to Jan. 31

Oct 28, 2020 | 4:57 PM

EDMONTON – A public inquiry into who is funding environmental opposition to Alberta’s oil and gas industry has been granted an extension until the end of January.

Alberta’s United Conservative government contends foreign interests have long been bankrolling campaigns against fossil fuel development and in 2019 tapped forensic accountant Steve Allan to lead a $2.5-million inquiry.

Allan’s report was initially due in July, but he was granted an extension until October 30 and a $1 million budget increase.

Energy Minister Sonya Savage says Alberta’s cabinet has agreed to another 90-day extension to January 31, but it comes with no additional funding.

“Our government has been unwavering in our commitment to stand up for our energy sector, including launching a public inquiry into the existence of a foreign-funded anti-Alberta energy campaign,” said Savage, in a statement.

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“In order to make sure the final report will provide government with the information required to address this important issue, cabinet has agreed to the commissioner’s request for a 90-day extension.

She says it’s meant to ensure potential participants have a fair opportunity to provide input and that COVID-19 restrictions have led to procedural delays.

A lawsuit filed by environmental law firm Ecojustice argues the inquiry is politically motivated, biased and outside provincial jurisdiction.

(The Canadian Press)