The commission provides a platform for public participation in environmental decisions
Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes announced that the Manitoba government has appointed Aimée Craft as the new chair of the Clean Environment Commission (CEC).
"The Manitoba Clean Environment Commission plays an integral role in informing our government on matters related to environmental issues and licensing," said Moyes. "We rely on the opinions of experts and public input to help guide our environmental policies, and the commission helps to facilitate this work."
Craft, an associate professor in the faculty of law at the University of Ottawa, is internationally recognized for her expertise in Indigenous laws, treaties, and water. She previously served as director of research for both the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. Her contributions to the legal field have earned her several accolades, including the Canadian Bar Association's President's Award in 2021 and a place on Canadian Lawyer's list of the Top 25 Most Influential in 2016.
Craft emphasized the CEC's role in ensuring fair environmental decision-making processes in Manitoba. "The CEC helps ensure that principled recommendations about past, ongoing, and potential environmental impact are made through fair processes and that diverse types of knowledge can inform environmental decision-making in the province," Craft said in a statement.
Established under the Environment Act, the CEC provides advice and recommendations to the minister of environment and climate change on environmental policies and licensing. It serves as a platform for public participation in environmental assessment and decision-making.
The commission's responsibilities include conducting public hearings, investigations, and mediation related to environmental issues. At the minister's request, the CEC reviews the potential environmental impacts of proposed developments, such as hydro projects and wastewater management. Public involvement is central to its processes, with opportunities for citizens to submit comments, present opinions at hearings, or participate in detailed reviews.
Following a hearing or investigation, the commission submits a report with recommendations to the minister. While the law does not require the minister to implement these recommendations, the minister must provide written reasons for any decision to reject them.
Minister Moyes also announced the appointment of new board members, including Jennifer L. Schulz, an associate dean of academics and law professor at the University of Manitoba. Schulz is also a fellow at the Winkler Institute for Dispute Resolution at Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto.
Minister Moyes expressed appreciation for the outgoing members' contributions to the commission and the Manitoba government. "I look forward to the important contributions our new chair and new members will make to the commission and ensuring our environment is protected for generations," Moyes added.
