Natural Resources Canada
2005/67
September 2, 2005

Offshore Petroleum: Thistle Appointed to Panel to Select Board Chair

OTTAWA — The Honourable R. John Efford, Minister of Natural Resources Canada, announced today that Newfoundland lawyer W. Wayne Thistle has been appointed to the panel to select a new Chair and CEO for the Canada–Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board (CNLOPB).

The announcement follows Minister Efford's July 25, 2005, formal request that a selection panel be established to appoint a new Chair and CEO for the CNLOPB. The Canada–Newfoundland Atlantic Accord Implementation Act calls for such a panel should the federal and provincial governments fail to agree on a suitable candidate. The position of Chair and CEO has been vacant since May 2004. The purpose of the three-person panel is to select the most qualified person to serve as Chair and CEO for the CNLOPB.

"I am pleased with Mr. Thistle's appointment to the panel," said Minister Efford. "With the expertise he brings to the selection process, I am confident the new Chair and CEO will not only be qualified for the position, but will also make an important contribution to the issues surrounding the offshore petroleum industry in Newfoundland and Labrador."

Mr. Thistle has served in many capacities, including General Counsel to Memorial University of Newfoundland, where he dealt with a number of organizational issues. He is also regarded as one of Canada's leading arbitrators and mediators.

The CNLOPB manage the petroleum resources in the Newfoundland and Labrador offshore area on behalf of the Government of Canada and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. The Board's Authority is derived from the legislation implementing the 1985 Atlantic Accord between the two governments.

All aspects of the day-to-day operations of the offshore oil and gas industry — including safety, environmental protection and resource management — are overseen and approved by the Board.

Mr. Thistle's term as a member of the selection panel is effective immediately.

FOR BROADCAST USE:

The Government of Canada has announced that Wayne Thistle has been appointed to the panel that will select a Chair and CEO for the Canada–Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board. The Board manages the petroleum resources in the region on behalf of the federal and provincial governments.

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