A Moment with the Mayor: Oil and Gas

The oil and gas industry, locally and nationally, is regularly in the public spotlight. The reasons vary from day to day, and depending on one’s perspective and awareness, the industry is viewed both positively and negatively.

As a former full-time employee in the oil and gas sector, I acknowledge that I bring a bias. From where I sit, the industry has continued working to improve on many fronts. This includes strengthening employee safety, meeting and supporting environmental regulations and oversight, and advancing technology, machinery, and equipment in meaningful ways.

The industry provides well-paying jobs for Canadians from coast to coast. It also contributes significantly to the quality of life many Canadians enjoy through the revenue it generates. Billions of dollars in oil and gas-related taxes flow to governments and support public services such as health care and education. Canada benefits from a stable and relatively affordable energy supply, something that is not the reality in many parts of the world.

Canada’s environmental record is a point of pride, and the country’s energy sector operates under some of the most stringent regulations globally. At the same time, global energy demand continues to grow, and expanding access to world markets remains an ongoing discussion, particularly for Prairie oil that is produced far from port access. Canadian energy continues to have available markets internationally.

There is also a need for continued national conversation about development and the infrastructure required to support it. Market access challenges and shifting global economic conditions continue to affect the industry. Historically, the value generated by Canadian energy has supported provinces and territories across the country through mechanisms such as equalization, contributing to fiscal resilience in regions with fewer natural resource revenues.

Canada continues to pursue economic sovereignty within an increasingly complex global economy, where trade challenges and opportunities exist at every turn.

I encourage Canadians to continue sharing perspectives and engaging in thoughtful discussion about the importance of the energy industry and the economic benefits Canadians experience as a result.

Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers
City of Lloydminster