- 13 advisory notifications regarding routine and extraordinary operational events were sent to stakeholders.
- In 2004, consultation topics included regulatory applications, amendments and updates; coker operations; water recycling; reclamation plans; research and development plans; emissions reduction plans; operational upsets that required the use of Syncrude’s diverter stack; sulphur storage; terrestrial monitoring; and community development and education.
- The frequency of meetings with Elders from Aboriginal communities was increased in order to foster a more regular and effective dialogue; 10 meetings and six reclamation site tours were held in 2004. The increased interface also enabled Syncrude to build stronger relationships, which served to enhance Syncrude’s understanding of Elders’ concerns about the environment and the impact of industrial activity on traditional lands. The industrial relations corporations (IRCs) owned by the region’s First Nations are now developing consultation processes and protocols to meet the information needs of Elders.
- In September, the Métis-Industry Consultation Office (MICA) pilot project developed through the Regional Issues Working Group and funded by Syncrude and other regional industry members, was extended for one additional year. MICA provides a forum for the region’s Métis people and industry to better understand each other and develop positive, mutually beneficial relationships. It also serves to address community concerns relating to the regional impacts of industrial development. In 2005, MICA will identify projects and programs to address the Métis community’s concerns surrounding economic development, education, and employment and training.
- Annual environmental stewardship meetings were held with the Industry Relations Corporations from Fort McKay, Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation and Mikisew Cree First Nation. Discussions at these focused on Syncrude operational updates, environmental monitoring, regulatory applications and key concerns of the IRCs.
- Quarterly reclamation stewardship meetings were held with the Fort McKay Industrial Relations Corporation. These meetings allowed for dialogue and feedback on Syncrude’s reclamation activities and closure plans. A significant outcome was a commitment to hold more site and issue specific tours to aid in Elders’ understanding of Syncrude’s reclamation research activities, particularly those involving wetland development and water quality. Small group tours are being planned to demonstrate Syncrude’s commitment to wetland development in the final reclaimed landscape.
