The OPI has asked Federal Finance Minister, Hon. Bill Morneau to ensure that the Ontario oil and natural gas industry is not bypassed while developing a Federal Aid Program for the energy sector in response to the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic.  In a letter recently sent to the Minister the OPI emphasized that a financial support package considers the needs of the Ontario oil and natural gas industry.  The letter further stated that companies require access to capital and measures to manage their operations through an extremely difficult period in the coming weeks and months to remain solvent, keep their businesses open, keep workers employed and support the communities in which they operate.  Some suggested measures would include:

 

1. Work with government agencies and financial institutions to ensure companies are provided with continued access to existing or new credit support.
2. Support or incentives for the reclamation of inactive and orphan wells; creating jobs for people working for service companies and indigenous communities who are particularly impacted from the downturn.

The Ontario Petroleum Institute (OPI) recognizes there may be special situations that arise during the COVID-19 pandemic.  The OPI has formed an Interim Emergency Response Team to assist OPI members, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) and Ontario municipalities deal with incidents such as leaks, or spills associated with oil and natural gas facilities.  The Interim Emergency Response Team is to be chaired by Jug Manocha and includes Frank Kuri, Ian Colquhoun, and Ben Barnes all industry professionals with considerable experience.  The volunteer Response Team will call upon OPI members for their expertise and services.

For emergency assistance please contact: Jug Manocha 519-494-7801

The Ontario Prevention Council is asking businesses to provide them copies of their Covid-19 Emergency Management Plans to assist them in advising the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development in developing “Best Practices” guidance for dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Prevention Council is gathering this data from employers across the province and will review the submissions to assist it in developing a model in response to the crisis.  The role of the Prevention Council is to advise the Chief Prevention Officer and the Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development by providing Occupational Health and Safety expertise.

Please reply with your information to opi@ontariopetroleuminstitute.com

EPEX 2020/OPI’s 58th Conference & Trade Show is scheduled for June 1 – 2, 2020 at the Best Western Stoneridge Inn & Conference Centre in London. Our Annual Golf Tournament will be held the following day on June 3, 2020 at Westminster Trails in London. More information on both events to follow and available under the Conference tab here on our website. (Has been cancelled due to COVID-19)

 

 

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