| Random Nbr |
Released Comment |
| RRE5000 |
I work in the oil oil & gas sector but I am very knowledgable about royalties and I found the Hunter report to be flawed. It did not consider 3 things: 1. Maturity of the basin (ie. the pool sizes are declining and increasingly difficult to explore for), 2. Cost structure of the industry (Producers are using the most sophisticated technology in the world to explore for oil & gas and it costs money), 3. Failure to consider land bonuses (ie. [Information Removed]knows full well that the exploration permits in many of the other basins in the world may have work fees but they are for longer tenure and are much cheaper than the bonuses paid by Alberta producers) I find the politicization of this report by the Media to be tragic. The oil and gas industry (particularly natural gas) is struggling and a significant increase in royalties will do long term damage. Furthermore, a precipitous increase in royalties will increase the cost of capital for producers as will face a risk premium of operating in a perceived "unstable" jurisidiction. In summary, I am against an increase in Alberta royalties. |
| RRE5001 |
you need to do everything the reoport says you should do! Raise royalties 20% no exceptions!!!!! |
| RRE5002 |
The government needs to take a big picture view of the proposed recommendations. Under the current regime many large companies are already poised to cut millions off their budgets and layoff people. This royalty review will make things even worse. Gas prices and costs are making that part of the business uneconomical right now. The analysis used in not a true picture of the economics in Alberta currently. In the end government may get a bigger piece of a smaller pie but the projected $2 billiion in additional revenue will be significantly outweighed by the hit to the economy, especially rural communities that rely on an active oil patch for employee in the businees and outside (car dealerships, hotels, restaurants etc). These recommendations could kill the proverbial golden goose and Premier Stelmack's footnote in history will be to usher in a Liberal government. I urge you to think about the larger picture and not use this issue as an opportunity to prove to the masses you can stand up to big oil! |
| RRE5003 |
I think the oil sands royalty system should change. I think, however, it would be wrong to penalise projects currently operating or underway. The present system was put in place to attract investment - it has been successful - but the no grandfathering option appear to me like the stick after you have held out the carrot. I think you should honour your word to these earlier projects - you can change the big carrot to be half a carrot from now forwards though |
| RRE5004 |
I run a small private independent oil & gas company. We operate most of our wells. Most of our production is shallow (less than 1000 metres deep), sweet gas. I find the current gas crown royalty system very complicated and the crown royalty payments are high when compared to oil (at lower productivities). [Information Removed] |
| RRE5005 |
I fully support the implementation of the committee's recommendations. These resources belong to all, present and future, Albertans. An open, fair market would dictate that our resources be 'sold' at 'fair market value'. If any developers cannot develop a project for their profit, why is that our problem? Successful businesses have a plan!! I do not support or believe the 'Chicken Little' response to this report. Alberta must look out for its future. Businesses will come and go but Alberta must remain. Thank you. |
| RRE5006 |
I don't disagree with the need for a review of the Royalty scheme but do have significant concerns with "over taxing" the Oil Sands Industry due to incorrect or out of date data. I do not support an approach by the government which puts at risk the future growth of this industry and the potential reduction or elimination of jobs that also support the province's budgettary needs. It is unfair to us Albertans who have invested time and money, to see our future put at risk. Finally, my additional concern with the present Royalty system and any future Royalty scheme is that more money needs to find its way back into Fort McMurray for infrastructure and resource needs necessary to support the continued growth. |
| RRE5007 |
i back the govt all the way on this one which to me is a no brainer.oil corps are making record profits never heard of before basically because past govt. gave them a generous rate.let these oil barons move on if they will, the alberta economy is far too inflated and becoming too unmanageable.what an awful public relations spin for rich oil corps to be complaining in public because they are being asked to share the wealth w/ rest of albertans. i think even the new recommendations are too generous for these oil corps. |
| RRE5008 |
I am not adverse to increasing the royalty's BUT the provincial gov't must be accountable as to how these funds are used and not disappear into general revenues. If the prices for these natural products go down then there must be adjustments. Also the gov't and general public must be made aware of the high risk taken by these companies when trying to develope a "MATURE" oil & gas fields. |
| RRE5009 |
I will be very disappointed in the stemach government does not fully accept the reoyalty review report and immediately follow it'e recommendations. Thisreport was written by an unbias yet knowledge group of committed individuals. The government should listen; Albertans have been cheated for too long! [Information Removed] |
| RRE5010 |
Totally agree to collect more royalty money from greedy oil and gas companies. |
| RRE5011 |
I applaud the courage and honesty of the recent report commissioned by the Alberta Government that advocates for higher resource reveues for the people of Alberta. As an Edmonton-born citizen, I want the best for my family and for Alberta society. We have been shortchanged by industry during the tenure of your govenment--I include during your time as Premier as well--and now is an opportunity for you and your gov't) for redress. I hope and prey you have the courage and vision to seek the monies that will indecreate a better legacy for yourself than the previous occupant of your Office. You hear our voices. You know our wishes. Now, please --ACT ! |
| RRE5012 |
Too much attention has been paid to the revenue side of the ledger relating to oilpatch activity and very little to the cost side. Those costs include the social, environmental and infrastructure costs attributed to the overheated economy as a direct result of unbridled oilfield activity. The province should not be intimidated by the oil and gas industry into foregoing the implementation of the recommendations of the review. The recommendations are a win-win for the government. They would slow down the overheated economy such that housing may become more affordable, preserve resources for future generations rather than the rape and pillage currently taking place and finally provide more capital to rebuild the province's overextended infrastructure. |
| RRE5013 |
Good afternoon, While I am not directly employed by an oil and gas exploration company I work with them every day. I encourage you to consider the full effects that these royalty changes could have on Alberta's economy. While the oil price remains high natural gas prices do not, and despite oil sands development, natural gas still plays an important part in out ecomomy. With drilling down significantly we have seen layoffs in service companies. If these royalty changes make Alberta a less desirable investment we will see our business go to B.C., Saskatchewan and the U.S. Layoffs will go beyond the service industry and beyond the oil and gas industry. Recently many Albertans have had the opportunity to become prosperous. While this prosperity may originate with a strong oil and gas sector the prosperity passes on, to restaurants, retails stores and many other industries. These people would lose their jobs too. We do have to acknowledge that there has been a negative impact to the boom including high housing costs, however it is not appropriate to counteract these negatives with extreme reaction. Our goal should be sustainable growth and the recommendations of the Royalty review Panel put Alberta in danger of reversing our growth. I was born and raised in Alberta and I believe our prosperity can survive far into the future but the recommendations of this Royalty Review could put this future in jeopardy. I hope you can see the bigger picture here because as the poles indicate many poeple do not. |
| RRE5014 |
Raising the Royalty will cause the price of oil to crash as well put China into a recession, which will put Alberta into a recession because no one will want our oil. Seriously though the Royalty should be raised much higher and be a percentage of the price of oil so we can benefit when the price is high like it is now. Look at the cities being built in Asia and in places like Dubai, we are falling so far behind on our infastructure and we're giving billions away? |
| RRE5015 |
Make sure that whatever is done is fair. The status quo is not unacceptable, especially in the Oil Sands plants that are in full production, but do not go overboard to make up for past lost revenue. We do not need a made in Alberta equivalent to the NEP. |
| RRE5016 |
[Information Removed] announced it would reduce expenditure by 1 billion if royaltys are increased. Good, this province needs to slow down a bit, I cannot find people and they are for the most part overpaid. Oil companies are crying about royalties as they rake in record profits. Get what is fair for the people of Alberta. If they want to shut down the patch fine, the oil is not going anywhere and demand is not going to wain anytime soon. And remember 20% is only a recmmendation, 30% sounds good to me. Keep up the good work. |
| RRE5017 |
The royalty review pannel was assembled to review, study the royalty issues for Albertans. Why would we not Implement its recomendations? If the review had favored the Big Oil there would not be any question as to its implementation. If the Conservative Government has not got the back bone to do what is right for Albertans maybe it is time to think of changing the government. I am appauled at the idea that the the government is going to allow the bitumum to leave the county and be refined in the U.S. This undermines our return on our royalty and is a loss of many high paying jobs. My family has been in canada for many generations, we have worked hard and been loyal Canadians and Albertans. We do not want to be exploted by Big Oil and the politics that the ALberta Conservative government has played for years by catering to the oil industries every whim and threat. There will be an election in the near future and if the Conservative Government wish to stay another term, they best implement the review pannels recomendations and stand up for Alertains interests. |
| RRE5018 |
We support the full implementation of all recommendations made by the Royalty Review Panel in their final report. [Information Removed] Edmonton, Ab |
| RRE5019 |
I remain very concerned that this review and it's implementation will cause a major downsizing of oilfields exploration/expansion, and lead to another crisis in Alberta. I also believe that it is wrong to renege on contracts and promises given to companies. Can you prove to me why grandfathering be such a bad thing? Can this not be done in increments? How can you compare our O&G industry to that of S American companies who are clearly not democratically operated? California and other US companies do not have to deal with winter and many other challenges of working so far north. The comparison fails on logic. Please be very careful you do not precipitate another catastrophic fincial situation in our province. |
| RRE5020 |
We have been giving our energy resources away under the past administration and it appears that the same is going to happen under the present regime! We have FINALLY got a panel that acknowledges that we have been ripped off on our royalties and I strongly support the panel. Even with their recommendations, we are still getting less than other oil producing nations. I wonder how Norway built up a $300 billion nest egg and we have about $16 billion. If these proposed rates are so atrocious, why are companies still buying into the oilsands? I have even heard the rumour that Norway may want to buy in as they will make more money here under even the proposed rates than they do at home! I also think the 1% rate, with NO cap, allows companies to spend & spend as they will recoup their expenses anyways, reducing our take. There is NO incentive for companies to be control their expenses under this system. If the government accepts less than what the review panel recommends, it will be a sad day for Albertans and probably a sadder day for the government. I hope the Premier adopts this report. Thanks. [Information Removed] |
| RRE5021 |
Premier Ed Stelmach,.. I believe Sir, you still have competion for your position from within.....Please don't try to fix a document (or an engine) that will cost more than its usefulness. Buy new, start over, rebuild. The 2 Billion has been lost. In addition to a new review assure us that any Money is being properly spent now,, by the province... In every case, a business or an individual will invest $$ better than any government.. Thanks [Information Removed] |
| RRE5022 |
As an Albertan since 1968 I would request the govenrment take a responsible, reasoned approach in changing oil and gas royalties. We have prospered over the last 5 years as a direct result of the royalties, land sale bonuses and spinoffs from the oil and gas industry. In 2007, as evidenced by the governments take from gas royalties (from low gas prices and the soaring Canadian Dollar) the industry is not in as good a shape. We all need to make informed decisions on the future of this province and the engine that has driven our prosperity. [Information Removed] |
| RRE5023 |
You know it is hard to beleive that Alberta would let all of these job's people are going to lose go by the wayside.I have been in the Alberta oilpatch for 18 or so years and rely on it for my living. I realize that Alberta should get more money in royalties but it should not be at the expense of it's people.Please think long and hard about this, many jobs are in your hands Mr Premier. Don't let us down I can not afford to support 2 kid's and a wife working for McDonalds. |
| RRE5024 |
We do agree we albertans should receive a larger share of royalties for our own natural resources...however we do think the % amount as talked about in the report is higher than needed. 5-10 % increase would be acceptable for myself and my circle of friends-family. |
| RRE5025 |
My name is [Information Removed]and I am currently a student at the University of Alberta. I have been following the recent developments with regards to the Royalty Review panel and feel that it is my obligation as a native Albertan to protest the proposed changes. The uninformed and inaccurate report by the review panel should in no way be in a position to conclude such a critical and controversial action. The opinions of six individuals should not determine the futures of hundreds of thousands of other Albertans, as well as for generations to come. It is short-sighted and ignorant to base decisions of such enormity on this erroneous and irresponsible information. The flawed information provided to the panel could result in disastrous implications for our province. The proposals suggested by the panel result in Royalty payments that would lead to reduced future investment/economic growth and activity, lower employment levels and decreased overall revenues for the government ultimately. As an Alberta citizen, I have serious concerns about the implications of such drastic increases in the Royalty payments. Although it may be necessary to review the current situation, to implement such a drastic increase based on a grossly misinformed report, is irresponsible and unaccountable. The report should be revised to include a more holistic view of the spectrum of effects on increased royalties to avoid the detrimental effects of economic downfall of our province. The government has a responsibility to make decisions based on the ultimate benefit of the citizens and future, and not on what will get them the largest sums of money in the interim. |
| RRE5026 |
Time to do the right thing Ed! Get us our money back - Maybe a Class Action suit is the way that Albertans need to go. If you have not been collecting the correct amount of royalties then we, as Albertans are getting cheated and are losing money because of it - How does one legally collect a debt - a lawsuit. Stay Tuned - If these recommendations are not implemented and the money ls'nt clawed back from Big Oil then it will be taken from the government coffers to be given to the people ( the victims ) |
| RRE5027 |
I do not think that the Committee took into consideration the consequences of their report before sending it to the Alberta Government for review. 1. Royalty increase will be closer to 50% increase would be getting around $5-7 Million instead of the reported $1-2 Million. 2. All royalties are to be paid upfront and most projects will not make money for the Company until 5th or 6th year. This is very uneconomical so the Project will not be done and most money for projects will be filtered out of the Country not just province. 3. With the decrease in new production, Service providers will suffer the most with huge layoffs. 4. Once the Provincial Government decides on how much they are going to take, Federal Government will come in and ask for their slice of the money and probably match the increase of the Provincial Government which will reduce the amount of projects even more. This will increase layoffs, and not just with service providers but also Oil & Gas Companies and will them filter into all areas. If a person can’t afford a home or food then they can’t afford to go out for supper or a movie. I think that the Provincial Government should take a very hard look at these increases and take all of the above into consideration before making a decision on one report that could potentially lead to a Depression like the States are heading for now. |
| RRE5028 |
What are you thinking......... Alberta has an economy that is unparelled to most anywhere of North America, why make drastic changes to ruin that. The tax losses (from property values going down, layoffs, loss of investment, etc) would balance out any extra revenues the gov't would gain. We essentially have a one time go at this or we can have a similar label to the Venezuelan gov't. If you feel you have to increase royalties only do it by a small amount, but NOT by 20%. Why not increase it by 3-5%, a number that wouldn't cause Albertans to lose their jobs. Investment dollars will go elsewhere and so will your votes if you do anything close to the "recommendations". [Information Removed] |
| RRE5029 |
Good Day! I am really concerned that this will end the great thing that we have going here in Alberta. I have read both sides and I honestly feel that this will be horrible to everyone from the top executives to people who sales homes and cars. I am afraid that those who have supported this issue do not realize what it truly means to them, their families and communities. I am sure that everyone would like more, but at what expense? The expense of your three adjacent neighbors and friends losing their jobs and livelihood! If that is the case, this province may not be the best place to reside after all. Homelessness may become a far greater problem than it currently is if this goes through. I beg you to please reject the study. I feel that both sides can win. A small adjustment can be sustained without the whole of this great province feeling the wrath! Thank you for your time. [Information Removed] |
| RRE5030 |
Please be very careful in imposing tax grabs reminiscent of the NEP. I lived through that and saw our economy devastated. This could easily have the opposite result if it limits energy sector growth and actual provincial revenues could easily decrease. |
| RRE5031 |
Accept all the recommendations! Make a positive decision for our future. [Information Removed] |
| RRE5032 |
It appears from the tone of the report that the panel is convinced that Alberta is not getting it's fair share of royalty's. At what point did the panel concider current revenues from royalties in the most prosperious economy in North America inadequate? Alberta oil and gas industry has always been different from other parts of the world. Our convenrtional heavy oil and oil sands production is more robust and dynamic in terms of technology required along with specialized services that support the production of it. This heavy oil product is unique and not replecated anywhere else in the world. It cannot be equaly compared! Natural gas production is getting harder to find. The new gas finds are deeper and more costly to explore for. The shallow gas is available but it is on the decline. Gas prices are $5.00/gj (aeco) and you will note the decline in drilling activity in the end of 2006 is directly related to an inadequate rate of return on investment. High storage ( due to lack of demand) and NGL markets are keeping prices soft for the forseeable future. This province has been fortunate in that revenues from royaties have allowed us to be debt free while population growth inclines as people from other provinces want to share in the wealth that other parts of this country wish they had the ability to prosper from. The cost models used by the panel did not concider todays environment in which costs have escalated and decreased revenues on natural gas have been evident since mid 2006. The NDP and the Liberals both say to go ahead and impliment the changes as provided by the panel as other companies will step in and replace those Alberta companies that inject their capital elsewhere in the world. Where will those other companies come from.... other parts of the world? It will not happen as there is no silver lining to this panels report. It wll change the economy in this province and we as Albertans will be standing around wondering why our revenues have fallen off so bad. The panels information needs to be reviewed by those that understand the robust nature of our oil and gas production and the cyclical nature of the products we sell. Using information that is not representative of the true cost environment is not Alberta's way......we need to make sure we maximize the potenial of our non-renewable resources as again no country in the world has the same heavy oil production that we do and no where else in the world is natural gas production getting this costly to produce. Lets take the time to do it right here and strike a balance. The panels report is bias and precludes a change is required. They should have been tasked with seeking the facts and pointing out opportunities that identify further discusion and debate for the people of this province to concider. I urge the government to do the right thing and seek more input and debate while at the same time educate those that are only listening to the false hoods of more revenues. There will not be more revenues for us as Albertans if the simple economics won't allow the investment. Oil and gas production in Alberta is not a sure thing....it's robust and requires the right economics to make it happen. It is our repsonsibilty as Albertans to review this panels findings. Lets look at the right cost and take the time to review the data rather than rush out to equal ourselves to some other country that operates in un-equal environments. |
| RRE5033 |
I just wonder how greedy Albertans have to be. If in fact many of our royalty dollars are going into a trust fund for "a rainy day" why do we need to be collecting more. We are seen as a "land of plenty" and really should consider carefully just how far or how much more we really need. |
| RRE5034 |
I fully support the recomentadtions by the Royalty Review Panel. The time has come to seriously adjust such and ensure that we are good stewards of this resource that ultimately belong to the people of Alberta - NOT oil multinationals. Fair is fair. |
| RRE5035 |
I feel this would be a mistake to up the royalties. Alberta will not be any better off. We will end up losing more money . It will be a ripple effect and there will be job losses not only in oil and gas but construction, hotels etc. We will not have any more money to spend on Health Care, Schooling etc. The oil companies spend hundreds of millions of dollars on royalties and other taxes that the public is unaware of. The employees for the oil companies pay huge amounts in taxes that will be lost because they won't have a job. Will the government bail these small business owners out of financial trouble like they do for the farmer's yearly. Highly unlikely. It is frustrating as a spouse of an oilfield worker to here the disrespect we get from the government and general public. These people complain about low royalties, but they don't have to listen to their kids cry at night wondering when daddy is coming home because he has been away for over 30 days. They haven't had to have Christmas a week later. They haven't had to miss their children growing up. Whose pockets are we lining if we up the royalties it won't be the public it will be the politicians. WHERE WILL ALBERTA BE IF WE RAISE THE ROYALTIES WE WILL BE IN THE HOLE STRUGGLING FOR YEARS TO GET OUT. WHY RUIN WHAT IS ALREADY WORKING. HOW DO YOU THINK ALBERTA GOT OUT OF THE HOLE.! From a frustrated spouse of an oilfield worker. |
| RRE5036 |
Dear Mel Knight, thank you for reviewing the oil and gas royalty formula. All the research I have read indicates that Alberta has long been underpaid for its oil and gas resources. The conservative govt of Alberta has to look at the public good in these matters and it seems in the past there was much more concern with industry profits. I am aware that it is difficult and dangerous as a politician to anger powerful industries such as the oil and gas industry. It is easier to give them what they want and reap the financial and press rewards that they will provide. However, this step on your behalf demonstrates a great deal of integrity and I applaud you on this. You can expect my support in the coming election if you follow the recommendations to increse royalties to the level stated in the report. Thanks for your ear, [Information Removed] |
| RRE5037 |
As an employee and former owner of a medium sized construction (80 employees) company in the [Information Removed]area, I am very aware of how the royalty increase scare has affected this company already. There has been cutbacks which translates into job losses, therefore losses to taxes, buying power of the consumer and the list goes on. I can not believe that the reports of cutbacks that the oil companies are predicting will not happen because it is already. Get something done about this problem before they do pull out. I do not believe that Alberta needs to give them everything they want but come up with a compromise! [Information Removed] |
| RRE5038 |
I dissagree strongly with the Royalty recommendation. I think the basis is flawed in using drilling costs and gas pricing during a very short boom in the 2005/2006 period. Investment has been noted to have dropped by over $2.5 billion from 2006 to 2007 by the likes of Encana, CNRL and ConocoPhillips alone with these companies and others already on record of decreasing investment by another $2 billion in 2008 from this already reduced level. This all at a time when costs to drill/complete/tie-in wells is at record highs and natural gas prices are below breakeven levels as reported by investment analysts. Please review the facts, this recommendation if passed will cause an economic downturn similar to that experienced in the early 80's when oil prices dropped (as gas has recently), currency exchange rate is at all time highs and the Calgary/Edmonton housing market has doubled in the last few years. Remember the drop in house prices in 1983 - in Calgary from $225,000 average to $120,000 in a year and it took 22 years for the average price to recover to $225,000!!! Please don't be the cause of this occuring again. Get the facts and ground your decision there, not in the political merits. Consider that economic business decisions have been made for multi-year capital investment in oil sands that should be grandfathered, consider an after profit royalty to preserve investments for the future. Thank you, [Information Removed] Calgary [Information Removed] |
| RRE5039 |
The oil industry has a long history of providing jobs to the prople of Alberta. They have taken the risks associated with new development and exploration. This province has grown very strong with the government and industry working together to provide for a strong, stable economy in this province. I believe it is small minority of people who are complaining they are not receiving their "share" of resources. The government's obligation is to protect Alberta's resources while continuing to work with industry to provide an environment that will provide strong investment which will bring jobs, opportunities, and growth to many sectors of this province. My advice to the government is not to be bullied by this royalty report and not to shoot themselves in the foot to satisfy a few greedy individuals. |
| RRE5040 |
I would recommend that the Provincial Government be very careful in the way it accepts any of the recommendations from the Royalty Report. It is very easy to label the energy companies as the ones who are making all the profits. If the energy companies were not making any profits, there would not be any investment in the Province of Alberta. With no investment, there would be no new jobs and economic growth. Lets not take an active measure to kill the goose that laid the golden egg. At some point, the camel's back will break and it usually takes 15-20 years for the energy industry to get warmed up again to get the investment going. Lets not forget the lessons we learnt in the early eighties. |
| RRE5041 |
I am appalled that the Gov't we had (past tense) trusted let us get ripped off of our resource revenue. Now [Information Removed] and the rest of those mobsters are going to leave if don't continue to be raped ? If they don't want to pay market value royalties I say let them go somewhere else (Russia or Vietnam) Albertians must be the laughing stock in ALL the Big Oil Boardrooms and we'll contine to be so if we don't raise royalties. Take a lesson from Newfoundland ! -With the BILLIONS (that's Thousands of millions to the un-educated)LOST already ...is that why our cities' roads are [expletive], and and we have no hospitals, education faciilities & lack of housing for our BOOMing population? Why are my taxes (municipal & provincial) so high if Alberta can afford to let the likes of [Information Removed] and [Information Removed]etc. have our resources for next to nothing? Have these "good corporate citizens" stepped up to build any infrastucture i.e roads, bridges, hospitals etc.??not to my knowedge. The Alberta Conservative Gov't bettter sharpen up or they will NOT govern much longer. [Information Removed], St. Albert |
| RRE5042 |
Dear Premier Stelmach, I strongly support increased royalties. If anything, the review makes recommendations on the low side, and you should accept their reccomendations as a bare minimum . Note the huge profits that these companies are making on our resources, and the fact that in the oil sands they are doing no significant reclamation. Please put some of the increase in a reclamation fund, so our grandchildren don't have to pay it. Landowners in Alberta will support you, we have landsmen at our door every day demanding more access, more seismic, more drilling THe oil companies are clearly orchestrating the recent demonstrations. It smacks of tactics used by big tobacco. [Information Removed] |
| RRE5043 |
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Royalty Review report. It is imperative that the Government of Alberta consider the recommendations of groups such as the University of Alberta-based Parkland Institute. In doing so, it is readily apparent that in spite of the negative comments received from the oil and gas industry in respect of the report's conclusions, there is equal concern from members of Alberta's population, including myself, that the report does not go far enough in addressing the gross inadequacy of the current royalty regime, a regime the Premier has himself identified as requiring review. The following from the Parkland Institute summarizes some of my concerns: "The panel's recommendation to increase the base royalty rate from the existing 25 percent to 33 percent is a step in the right direction, but still grossly inadequate. Although this move would increase Alberta's total share (royalties and taxes) of tar sands revenues by some 40 percent, it would still leave the province firmly entrenched in the bottom half of jurisdictions around the world in terms of rent collection. With countries like Norway and Venezuela obtaining 78 percent and 90 percent respectively, Alberta is far from being a leader in this regard. And contrary to industry threats of late, these countries are experiencing no shortage of oil companies wanting to invest in their resources. Likewise, the panel's report does very little in the area of incremental royalties and taxes. Even with full implementation of its recommendations, it projects a decline in government revenue from oil and gas of almost $4 billion dollars from 2006 to 2016: this despite increased production, increased demand, and increased prices." It is important for the Government of Alberta has been repeatedly urged to consider the rapid rate of the tar sands industry in Northern Alberta and its impact on all Albertans. Should this report's recommendations be implemented, the rate of tar sands development may indeed be reduced. This is not, in spite of the corporate concerns expressed to date, necessarily a "bad" thing. Indeed, a moderate, intelligent and controlled rate of resource development is in the best interest of all Albertans. Thank you for considering the opinions of all Albertans. The royalty report is a step in the right direction. Please do what is right for the people of Alberta. Thankyou [Information Removed] |
| RRE5044 |
Hopefully the royalty review will not be watered down. The oil companys are acting as anticipated. We strongly support the PC party in Alberta . . . but the party's future rests on not letting big oil bully the province. A slowing down of the oil sands projects would be welcome by most Albertans who are not involved in the oil patch. |
| RRE5045 |
The review panel was hand-picked by the Government - there is unbiased reporting! The panel stated that the Goverhment's own system for collecting royalties was out-dateed - get this fixed instead of trying to take the easy way and just collect more money. As a tax payer I am tired of the Government coming and grabbing more money - just because they want more. Take a look at your own inefficiencies - every other business has to be accountable. |
| RRE5046 |
Thank you for the opportunity to provide feedback on this important issue. I cannot appreciate the difficult position that the elected officials of this province have now found themselves in. The pressure associated with making simple financial decisions for oneself can be quite daunting at times. I can only imagine the stress associated with making a monumental economic decision that could affect miilions of citizens. However, I do ask that the members of the legislative assembly of Alberta steel themselves as they enter into their most serious deliberations concerning the issue of resource royalties. As the child of a former oil industry worker, I must say that I deeply appreciate the openness of the Alberta Government and the willingness of the petroleum industry to facilitate employment and resource development to the benefit of many. The economic benefits of this sector cannot, and should not, be underestimated. Yet, these same economic benefits appear to have been curtailed by a royalty system that has not changed with the times. Other jurisdictions in the world have far more lucrative royalty strategies, which have injected much needed capital into the public coffers, and have not negatively impacted exploration and development. The current comments made by representatives of the petroleum industry (and some MLAs) comparing any suggestion of royalty increases to the conditions in Venezuela are disingenuous and inflamatory. At any moment, I do expect the ugly spectre of the National Energy Program to raise its loathsome head through various media and editorial. I am asking that the elected officials of this province keep their heads above such rhetoric and embrace the facts as presented. I would encourage the members of the legislative assembly of the province of Alberta to increase resource royalties to reflect the current development situation. The global need for oil is tremendous and every estimation predicts that this situation will not change anytime soon. With the desperate need of urban municipalities for infrastructure funding, provincial school boards for education funding, and health regions for care funding, the provincial cabinet members would demonstrate great wisdom and forethought in increasing royalty rates as per the Royalty Review Panel report. Once again, thank you for this opportunity to participate in this process. [Information Removed] |
| RRE5047 |
I believe that the Oil Companies are already paying enough Royalties. In order for the Oil Companies to pay higher Royalties the price that we as a consumer will go up as the cost has to come from somewhere. As we have learned so many times in the past, this price hike will hit the consumers. If the Government was struggling to meet the needs of the Province as so many are today I might have a different view however, we truly are not. I do know myself as a sole provider for a family of 5 I can no longer bear any more prices raised to heat my home or to run a car. It is really unfortunate that almost every industry has the same view of Alberta and that is that the people have money to burn because we all are working for Huge Oil Company and are making crazy money. I personally can hardly feed my children as it is and sadly I do bring home a better wage than some. I think that this Government should be a responsible Government and not one by greed |
| RRE5048 |
I am concerned about this royalty review report. Yes, I understand that changes to the existing royalty program are needed but they need to be well thought before it is done. From my perspective if the review panel's recommendations are adopted then we will end up worse off than we are now. The oilpatch activity will decrease dramatically and any short-term gain in royalties will be more than offset by the longer term consequences. I can still remember the fallout from the National Energy Program and certainly don't want to see anything like that happening here again. Increasing taxes, in any form, does not always mean higher revenues. If oil companies cut back their activity and they will then less people are working and chances are the companies will be paying less taxes. If less people are working less taxes are being paid. If less people are working we will probably see a dramatic rise in bankruptcies, a sharp drop in property values, and a lot of angry, hard-working taxpayers. Let's not get greedy and hurt the people you serving. Let's be reasonable about any royalty increases and pay attention to what the industry is saying. After all, they're the ones taking the risks with their capital investments and they're the ones that hire the rest of us in one way or another. If investors pull their money we suffer. Please think this over very carefully. If you're going to make a mistake please err on the side of caution. Because if you make a mistake on the side a lot of people are going to be hurt. |
| RRE5049 |
Please go ahead with the reports recommendations. Why should oil companies get an extra share of Albertans resources.? |
| RRE5050 |
I strongly support the recommendations of the Royalty Review Report. As a life-long Albertan I expect my government to do what is in the best interest of its citizens. I am disturbed by the rhetoric of the oil and gas industry who choose not to mention the reduction in royalty rates for many parts of their industry, and the recognition that increased royalties will not kick in until all operating costs are recovered. What I am seeing is unmitigated greed and scaremongering. When an industry makes a $6B surplus in a year (a record) for their shareholders then they should be ashamed of themselves. We all know that as soon as the resources are gone so will they be and we will be left with a huge environmental mess to clean up and no further $ coming in to deal with it. |
| RRE5051 |
Given the current ecomonic downturn in the oil and gas industry in Alberta, I believe that full scale royalty review is not a wise decision. Cost of drilling and producing in Alberta is high compared to other parts of the world, even compared to the US, and adding an additional cost to the pot will only discourage more drilling. Given the recent rise in the Canadian dollar, Canadian producers are seeing a drop of significant measure in their realized revenue - oil prices remain high, yes, but we all used to be able to count on cheap cost of sales (in Canadian funds) and boosted revenue (based on conversion from US dollars to Canadian dollars). This is not the case now, and producers are being hit hard as are many other Canadian businesses. If drilling rig activity continues to stay soft, or falls lower than current levels, we will go from a prosperous, buoyant outlook in Alberta to a major recession. Many of our competitors pulled out 40% or more of their fleets - something I would not normally complain about. This abandonment of the Canadian oil and gas market to a more favorable market in the US is one that local producers may follow as well. If the Conocos,Talismans, etc of our market decide that they can also operate more profitably in the US, this will have a tremendous negative impact on our Province. If the wells are not being drilled, the royalties are not being paid. Finally, if oil and gas producers ease up on their spending in Alberta, the trickle down effect on our economy will not go unnoticed. In the same manner that the oil sands and the corresponding boom in activity in the oil sector has fueled the feverish growth of recent years in Alberta, this growth can and will come to a very abrupt halt if producers choose not to drill in Alberta. Jobs will be lost, attraction of workers from other provinces, or other countries will be reversed, and businesses from grocery stores to car dealerships will be impacted. Do not loose focus on the fact that the oil industry is very much the foundation on which Alberta's economy is built. If the strategy of the current government is to maintain a positive future for Albertans, then the strategy should not be one that cripples the major industry that provides us all with income. |
| RRE5052 |
This is a bad time to increase royalties due to the conditions that are already affecting investment as well as budgets. We have the highest lifting costs in the world before the high dollar and high storage. I believe the oil companies should pay their share, but we should implement this gradually and fairly so that we can continue working. Mass lay-offs are on all oilfield service agendas if conditions do not improve. |
| RRE5053 |
As representatives of the people by the people don't you feel that this should be voted on by the people. This will effect each and every Albertans future. Thanks [Information Removed] |
| RRE5054 |
I work in the oil industry, and we need to follow through with the full recommendations on royalties. The only thing we need to ask ourselves is what is the worst that can happen? If "Big Oil" is not bluffing (and I think they are) then we still own the resources and can save the prosperity for our children! |
| RRE5055 |
Please take the time and effort necessary in order to weigh all of the factors and consider all of the stakeholders in the decision to act on the Alberta Royalty Review Report Recommendations. This decison need not be made in haste, or for political reasons. Rather, the correct decision must be made based on sound economic and financial research and analysis. Thank you for taking the time to do the right thing, and make the best possible decision for as many Albertans as possible. |
| RRE5056 |
I FEEL THE PANEL SHOULD REAVALUATE THEIR DECISSION OVER THE ROYALTY REVIEW AND WORK WITH THE OIL INDUSTRY TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE. AS WE FEEL THE INFORMATION THE PANEL HAS IS WRONG. MORE ACCURATE INFO IS NEEDED BEFORE A FAIR DECISSION IS MADE. IF EVERYTHING WAS TO GO THROUGH, YOUR NOT JUST EFFECTING ALBERTA, BUT THE REST OF CANADA. THEIR ARE ALOT OF EMPLOYEES IN THE OIL INDUSTRY THAT COME FROM OTHER PROVINCES TO SEEK WORK. YOU THINK THE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE IS HIGH, IT WILL SKY ROCKET. PLEASE REVIEW THE PANEL REVIEW BEFORE HURT TOO MANY INNOCENT FAMILIES. [Information Removed], |
| RRE5057 |
The idea of increasing taxes when a government is running record surpluses boggles the mind, both as a political and economic decision. The concept of taxing job creators under the guise of giving back to Albertans is laughable. If the money was coming back to ALL Albertans in a meaningful way (i.e. significant provincial income tax reduction) or if the tax was matched with a subsequent reduction in corporate taxes, then one could see the A-B connect. However, this latest concept is so obviously an attempt at wealth redistribution- a misidrected and wholly socialist concept. To take investment dollars from job creators and direct those resources to feed government's pet projects is to erode the incentive that drives this economy. Politically, your government is turning what was a healthy ideological debate into a pocket book issue for Albertans. The result is not a fight that can be won. But perhaps this is the intent. This whole notion reeks of the bureaucracy, of the animals running the farm. His Liberal tendencies notwithstanding, Minister Oberg and his learned men might take a lesson from the Ontario experience. If a population feels destined to be governed by Liberals, it will elect those confident enough to declare themselves as such, rather than stomach the dishonesty of those in Conservative clothes. |
| RRE5058 |
I believe that the people of Alberta deserve more from the Oil Companies. This is the last significant deposit on earth, and they will develop it regardless of royalties - Alberta is still a much cheaper and friendly place to do business than the other oil producing nations ... |
| RRE5059 |
I write this note to voice my displeasure with the recent recommondations coming from the Royalty Review Panel.As an employee of an oil and Gas company I know first hand these impact changes will not only have on our Industry in Alberta,but our economy as a whole.I look to the Premier to bring some reality to this proposal- before they send Alberta into a irreversable economic tailspin. |
| RRE5060 |
Stand tall- Do not let these multi national corporations push us around. Do what is right for Albertans. |
| RRE5061 |
Hello. I work in the energy indudtry,mainly in Alberta, and have for many years. It is a great industry in a great province. I think it has come a long way in the last 30 years and then some, takeing a lot of Albertans a long way in witch many of us are very thankful for, and i like to add, "very proud" of. The Technologey is a vast and very real part of our lives, and every one involved directly, and indirectly is and will be affected by all of the industry's future. I do believe that royalties are impotant to all Albertans. I also think that they shoul be reviewed from time to time,but I also hope we don't get, shall we say too aggresive on the Industry, as to slow it from continuing to progress, thus helping Alberta, and every one in Alberta. Thank you, [Information Removed] |
| RRE5062 |
The royalty review (and proposed increase) is long overdue. I am definitely in favor of increasing the amount oil companies pay in royalties. It seems to me that development is the province is already overheated and an increase in royalties will help by slowing some new development. At the very worst, Albertans would getting a better return on the loss of a non-renewable resource. |
| RRE5063 |
Leave the current system alone or destroy the Alberta Economy. What is there to decide on. Perhaps Ed's leadership is the only thing needing review. Through this process he is clearly showing that he is way over his head in the understanding business and economic matters. He's playing dangerous politics with the Alberta economy and I am not impressed. How do I know? I am a geoligist fully aware of the economics of my projects and of oil and gas in general. I can tell you that the Oil and Gas companies are not bluffing. My job and others are at stake with this decision including my son's future who is a 3rd year engineering student wanting to work in the "patch". There is the right thing to do or a reckless popular thing to do . The outcome is certain by playing into the hands of the uniformed popular vote. The economy will instantaneously go in the tank. Thousands and thousands of jobs will be lost. Do the right thing for Albertans. Keep the economy strong. Leave the current royalty system alone. |
| RRE5064 |
It seems this increase in Royalties will affect negatively the economy in Alberta, less jobs, less investments, maybe a crisis. I ask from my Government to do another analysis and communicate more with the oil companies because Alberta citizens do not want to be unemployed or move to another province. Thank you very much to give us an opportunity to express our thoughts. PS Please do not take Encana's letter as a threat. They are just kepping us informed. |
| RRE5065 |
I am writing you to stress my concerns with the 'Our Fair Share' royalty review report recently submitted to the Alberta Government. The recommendations in this report, if adopted, have the potential to put the entire Albertan economy at risk. Although the intentions of the report and evaluation of the current Royalty system can only be viewed as a positive initiative, it needs to be recognized that the stakes are extremely high. The Albertan O&G industry has not only become the 'Golden Goose' of the Albertan economy but it is also driving the current success of the Canadian economy. The main concerns I have with the 'Our Fair Share' report are as follows: Inaccurate Capital Cost Assumptions = Misguided Recommendations - The Panel's base capital cost assumptions used to develop their recommendations are significantly understated (by a factor of 2). The credibility and analysis of the report recommendations requires significant review. - By substantially increasing the Royalities on the oil sands, there is significant risk that new projects will be cancelled and future expansions scaled back, delayed or cancelled. The high cost environment has already made these projects marginally, this Panel's recommendations would be a finishing blow. - The Panel's statement that 82% of natural gas wells will pay lower royalties is based on the assumption of continuing low natural gas prices. In fact, if evaluating with the current one year natural gas price, all wells will pay higher royalties (including the marginal wells). Considering that the majority of new wells throughout Alberta are considered 'marginal', many wells across the province will immediately become uneconomic. Alberta becomes an unstable investment environment - Changing the 'rules of the game' mid-way through the completion of existing approved megaprojects is akin to the mode of government interaction with business in more unstable region of world, such as Russia, Venezuela, and Kazakhstan. Investors and foreign directed investment (FDI) money will start to look elsewhere if Alberta starts to be classified as an unstable investment environment. Once investor money starts to flow away from Alberta it will not be easy to bring it back. The long period of time required to recover from the National Oil Program in the 1980's should serve as an example. Changing Definitions will leave Primary Production in the oil sands areas uneconomic - Eliminating the primary production in the oil sands area from the Oil Sands Royalty program will dramatically change the economics of continuing this form of production in many areas across Northern Alberta (such as Bonnyville, Elk Point, Cold Lake, Lloydminister and Slave Lake/Wabasca). The cost of developing Alberta's resources is already high relative to other O&G producing regions of the world. The 'technically challenging' nature of Albertan resource development is indeed costly but it is also a great generator of employment. The reduced activity that would result if the 'Our Fair Share' report recommendations are adopted would lead to significant unemployment and reduced economic activity. Please ensure that the capital cost assumptions which creates the basis for this report are scrutinized and vetted with the Oil and Gas industry prior to considering the Panel's recommendations. Accurate cost assumptions are critical to developing appropriate models to evaluate future impacts and ensure no unintended consequences. Yours truly, [Information Removed] |
| RRE5066 |
I believe the Government should listen to the Oil Companies. The panels review has flaws., i do not believe the panels full recommendation is what is best for Albertan's. The oil companies are telling you what is going to happen...i do not believe these are just idle threats. Thousands of unemployed, could be detremental to all Albertans, our economy and infrastructure. I do believe that Albertan's are entitled to there fair share, without devestating the economy. "Don't bite the hand that feeds you" |
| RRE5067 |
Premier Stelmach, When considering the panels report it is important to remember that even though these big oil companies are posting multi-billion dollar profits, the majority of those profits are coming from their operations elswhere in the world - NOT ALBERTA. The majority of wells drilled in Alberta have very thin profit margins unlike other places around the world. The costs for driling, completing and bringing on production a typical shallow gas well in Alberta are 79% HIGHER than the same type of well in Texas. If anything, the government should consider lowering royalties in select areas to encourage more investment in the province and it's people. The other thing that isn't mentioned when a company like Exxon posts profits of $10 billion is the $100 billion (example only) it had to invest to get that. There may be a few select area's where royalties could be marginally raised but if the report from the royalty review panel is implemented, Albertans will be getting their FAIR SHARE of NOTHING (or close to it)! It's not about threats. It's basic economics! If I get a zero or less than favorable rate of return on an investment, I'm simply going to invest elswhere. I realize they are a bit random but I hope these considerations will be taken to heart. The average Albertan is only getting the perspective from the bottom up and aren't seeing the other perspective from the top down (so to speak). It would be a mistake to base such an important descision on the opinion of an misinformed populace. The media has done a great job of spin doctoring this whole event into a battle between the "big bad oil companies" and Premier Stelmach when it has nothing to do with that. Guaranteed, the people writing these reports and skewed stories aren't going to be the ones out of a job at the end of the month with families to support. The oil companies are not a cash cow to be milked for every last drop. If you insist on taking that approach, one of these mornings you'll wake up to discover the cow ran away to greener pastures and you'll be left holding an empty bucket. Please examine all the up-to-date data and make the right choice for Albertans. The majority don't realize how far reaching the ramifications of this decision will be... Sincerely, Concerned Citizen |
| RRE5068 |
The oil in Alberta belongs to the people not the oil companies. it is the job of the government to make sure we get all the royalties to which we are entitled so the first thing the government should do is get the royalties which we have not collected for the past three years. We should then follow all the suggestions of the royalty review panel which seem to me to still give the oil companies a real sweetheart deal. Does it still make sense not to collect anything until start up costs have been recovered. This was a great move on the government's part to get htings rolling but now that everyone wants a piece of the action it should really be reviewed yet the panel did not touch it. Alberta is the safest place in the world for oil companies to work. Don't give in to their belly- aching. The oil will not go away and if we slow down development a bit we may actually leave something for our children and grandchildren. Than You, Yours sincerely, [Information Removed] |
| RRE5069 |
Hello, I would just like to ask the government to remember that it is not only the oil companies that will be hurt by higher royalties. When drilling slows down, its not the CEOs that pay the price, its the working guys like us here in Edmonton where I live and rural alberta who are first to go. When I'm trying to feed my family and pay the bills, I know that more money from employer's to the government won't help. So I'd ask you all to look past the bluster and realize that taking money away from the economy is going to hurt me and lots of other average voters. Respectfully, [Information Removed] |
| RRE5070 |
The 20% increase royalty recommended by the review panel should be implemented. Your newly elected PC party encountered the same situation in the early 70s. Premier Lougheed had the vision and the strength our current Premier, Ed Stelmach, should have. No dithering! No kowtowing! The oil industry is nowhere in the world better than in Alberta. |
| RRE5071 |
All I hope is that this Government will take the time to review thier report and ensure they understand fully before decieding Albertas future ( re. news releases from Company's involved).Everytime Alberta's economy starts up government shots it in the foot. Stop and think before you act it could be you children that carry the burden of you deciesions. |
| RRE5072 |
I think that the 1% royalty rate until payout on oil sands should be increased to 3 or 4% to make more money until these things payout, but don't touch royalties for conventional production. That will impact a lot of people's livelihood who depend on conventional production (services, construction etc) and the natural gas drilling industry is really hurting right now. I have seen guys get laid off, if you increase natural gas royalties more guys are going to get let go. |
| RRE5073 |
Hello, I would like to express my thoughts about the Alberta Royalty commission’s recommendations. I say no to a large Percent Royalty increase. Drastic changes create drastic results. It is good that a review of the Royalty Structure has been done, it was long overdue. But I think that implementing extreme changes in that structure, may work for the moment it is initiated, but almost immediately its impact will be felt, marginal wells will not be kept running, new projects will be shelved and new investment money will definitely slow down, due to a loss of trust. Government revenues from other sources will be reduced. I believe we should take small steps, manageable changes that if done under the guidance of a plan and reviewed periodically over the period of a generation or two will give fair monetary return on our non renewable resources to the people of Alberta, but not drastically alter the playing field that may have negative consequences for year to come. Quoting from a CBC News article of September 23 2007: “The opposition Alberta Liberals say this “lack of government accountability” has allowed $8.6 billion to slip through provincial hands over the last 15 years.” I say that the previous Alberta Government inherited a Provincial debt that looked horrendous when they took office. They promised to tame that debt. I was impressed with their ability to stick to the promises they made. The Oil Industry was underachieving at this time and Previous Governments put money into the development of the oil sands and an Upgrader. (Lloydminster) Then Royalty concessions were made to support development and allow capital cost recovery. When the price of oil started to climb they believed that it was only temporary and that prices would of course fall back the next year. They kept forecasting lower oil prices with every budget released. The price never fell and this resulted in our debt being eliminated far sooner than ever anticipated. A surplus of money went into the Heritage Fund. I feel we went from debt to surplus so fast they were unable to believe it could continue to happen for as many years as it did. Oil prices are now high but the costs associated with extracting the oil are catching up and effectively eating into this profit. Wages and costs are high; you increase the royalties and then if the price of oil drops there are no profits left. We will not be able to say “sorry, we won’t do that again”. Please go slow and initiate a system that will review the Royalty Structure on a regular basis. Sincerely, [Information Removed] |
| RRE5074 |
I aam a grade 9 student and I am concerned about my future. I think you should accept the roalty reveiw so you can use the extra money to help the province. You could use the money to help schools, healthcare, build roads and the poeple of Alberta. The province wil eventually run out of oil and then we won't be getting any money at all. Thank you for this oppertunity to share my point of view. |
| RRE5075 |
I believe that the recently released royalty review recommedations represent bad policy that will ultimately result in economic decline in our province. I also believe it represents regressive thinking that probably should have been left in the Trudeua era. Oil and gas is an economic generator of profit in Alberta and ultimately the economics of small oil and gas plays will be reduced by taking 10% more out of the industry. Already the royaties are high resulting in many good oil and gas plays being left behind because they are uneconomic due to recent increases in costs. More Albertans are employed than ever in direct and indirect jobs supported by the oil and gas industry and we owe it to Albertans to ensure a successful oil and gas industry in Alberta. More royalties are not the answer, I believe this is the opposite response to Alberta fiscal needs. The new policies will over tax larger resources plays leaving less monies for re-investement in smaller ones. Declines in production need to be replaced by these. My advice to the government is, don't go there!! |
| RRE5076 |
The recommendations in the "Our Fair Share" report from the Alberta Royalty Review Panel, if implemented, could have severe negative ramifications for Alberta's economic well-being. Conversely, if some changes are not implemented, many Albertans would argue that it is true that we are not getting our fair share of oil and gas revenues. Unfortunately the report’s economic analysis, for the oil sands sector in particular, is based on flawed inputs. In addition, a number of conclusions in the report are anecdotal, without supporting analysis or data. Furthermore, at least as far as can be determined from the report, the recommendations for the fundamental royalty mechanisms and rates were not tested against other alternatives. Most importantly, the proposed royalty mechanisms don’t recognize the specific characteristics of the oil sands sector. However, the industry shares the blame for errors and shortfalls in the panel’s recommendations in two major areas. Firstly, the data that the panel used for their analysis were based on public domain information. Some of the public domain information is directed by the industry at attracting investment capital and tends to be optimistic, when compared with actual results. Actual results in royalty statements are protected by privacy legislation. This prevents the Alberta Department of Energy from releasing data showing projects' performance to be close to what the [Information Removed] has been indicating in the media. In other words, to some degree, the flawed analysis is of the industry’s own doing - projects' profitability is one story for the purpose of raising money and another for the purpose of a royalty share debate. Secondly, the industry was almost unanimous in its position that the current system should not be changed, and that the proportionate share of projects' cash flows should not increase as profitability and/or oil prices increase. Theoretical economic arguments can be made on the positive and negative economic consequences of increasing proportionate government takes under more profitable scenarios. The political reality, however, is that given very high levels of profitability, the resource owners (Albertans) will require a greater share of the pie. If this were not the case, why would there be the necessity for a royalty review? Because our oil and gas industry was not pragmatic enough to recognize the obvious, it has ended up talking past the government and the panel, rather than with them on achieving a mutually acceptable solution. So where does that leave us now? The Premier has indicated that he will make an announcement in the middle of October. If he fully accepts the panel's recommendation, he will be relying on analysis that used flawed inputs and recommendations from a group of six people who have limited oil and gas industry and fiscal terms experience and have been working on the issue for about half a year. This will ignore multiples more experience available from many times more people in industry and the Department of Energy. The fact that the industry may have brought some of the report’s recommendations on itself is not a good reason for accepting it as is. For such an important issue, hopefully logic will prevail and the real experts will be consulted. An interim announcement from the Premier could address changes in principle, while allowing more time to work on details. To emphasize - the details and magnitude of the panel's recommendations will impair Alberta's economic well-being. Finally, some comments on the conclusions in the report that are so disparaging of the Alberta Department of Energy: There are no data or analysis to support the conclusion that the Department is in a position of conflict in terms of its responsibilities for encouraging resource development and for ensuring that Albertans receive their fair share of resource revenues. This conclusion is purely anecdotal. The Department is diligent, industry would argue, to the point of being unreasonable, in maximizing the royalties they collect and in ensuring that royalty policies enable this. An alternative conclusion to the panel's could be that they were unable to get the support they requested of the Department simply because it is inadequately staffed, rather than because it was caught "flat-footed" (the report's wording). Staffing is a management issue at levels higher in government and not a performance issue for the Department as it exists now. The working levels in the Department and their industry colleagues have long recognized that they are short-staffed. It's not clear why this would by better resolved by the "Superministry" suggested by the panel, than by simply providing the Department of Energy adequate staff. Also, lack of available information, another complaint by the panel is, to a large degree, a legislative issue governed by privacy protection legislation and is out of the control of the Department. It's disappointing that a panel of highly regarded individuals came up with a report that is flawed in so many ways. Packaging and well-written prose can't compensate for lack of depth. More work needs to be done before closing the royalty review file. |
| RRE5077 |
Please do not try to fix something that is not broken. The economy in Alberta is red hot. Please do not let greed influence your descion. If you raise the royalties , you will discourage investment possibly. Trusting you will give this your utmost consideration. Thank-you |
| RRE5078 |
The commission's report should be the MINIMUM accepted royalty. The resources are supposed to belong to the provinces people. |
| RRE5079 |
Every year record profits for energy companies, share the wealth. Please increase royalties to a proper level. Thanks |
| RRE5080 |
I strongly disagree with the conclusions drawn by the Royalty. Under the current royalty structure, Alberta has grown to be the economic powerhouse of Canada and the envy of the free world. Our citizens have a very high standard of living, and our government spends more per capita on its citizens than any other province yet still shows huge surpluses. As a small business owner ( not in the oil and gas patch) I have benefitted greatly from the economic prosperity of Alberta and its citizens. As my business has grown, I have hired more employees, increasing the tax base of the country and the province, and further contributing to the Alberta Advantage. People must realize that although the companies which explore for oil and gas in Alberta do have the potential to make great profits, they take great risks as well. While doing so, they contribute greatly to the wealth of the province and the country by providing jobs to people who then pay huge personal taxes. We must remember that it is the buisness owner who pays the personal taxes of this country, as he must ensure the revenue to pay the employee. The Oil and Gas industry in this province already pays the lions share of all taxes raised here through both the direct taxation of their employees and through taxation on the plethora of jobs they create in service industries to support the O&G company and their employees. If it is not broken, don't fix it. We are a wealthy and entrepeneurial province. Don't break that entrepeneurial spirit by over-taxing the businesses who create the wealth. |
| RRE5081 |
Well I am again sickened by "brilliant government work". I personally have lost 25% of my investment portfolio due to the ridiculous federal government "fix" that was made to "stop tax leakage" on trusts. Now as a proud Albertan we are facing a potential move by this government that will result (regardless of the level of implementation) in less money in hard working Albertan pocket. What a great idea... lets further tax the companies that are paying for this robust economy. Sorry Ed but sending more money to the government coffers will not provide a better lifestyle or income for people who grind it out day to day in oilfield related jobs - that is just bull [Expletive]. Raising royalties will result in less drilling, fewer well work-overs, less corporate interest in this province, lower income, less money spent on equipment and vehicles, lower house prices, lower equity markets and less income tax. Take a look how lowering taxes improves the well fair of places like Ireland... increasing taxes does nothing except crush peoples drive and motivation to do things. That applies to corporations and individuals. If this goes through I will be leaving this province but not until I help to vote this government out of office. Do not kid yourself that will happen! Why? Because the morons (yes, the misguided fools) that support these changes (that they do not understand) will be on the other side of the fence when their relatives lose jobs, the small towns start to suffer, the local retailers start complaining, and all this anticipated extra revenue they were suppose to “share in” disappears because the interest to drill wells left the province to go to locations that understand the economics of risk and reward. Albertans are seeing their fair share now - perhaps you should be sending that message!!!!! |
| RRE5082 |
I think the royalty review panel have considered all factors and have it about right. I am offended by the arrogance and by the media blitz the the oil industry have launched to mislead Albertans and threaten our elected MLAs. I represent one of those providing the other 60% of Alberta's revenues. WE WANT OUR PROVINCE BACK |
| RRE5083 |
I am a very concerned Albertan at what our provincial government is seriously debating doing to the people of Alberta by raising royalties rate. The oil and gas industry is the industry that has provide dAlbertan's with the life style that we are so fortunate to enjoy. The oil and gas industry still has not gotten off of its "knees' based on what the federal government did to our industry last year with the royalty trust situation. People in our provincial government should be intelligent enough to recognize this. Also the reaction to the royalty trust situation has reduced activitiy in this sector over the past year, which will naturally effect the amount of money going in to the provincial governments pockets. Tell me how just 2 years ago the people of Alberta were given $400 each as Mr. Kline wanted the people to share in the windfall of the province and NOW the government wants to rape the industry to the point it will walk away from Alberta and spend its money in BC or SK. On top of this many small O & G companies will be closing their doors due to this situation. Many people are not thinking that this royalty structure is going to have a major impact on gas wells in Alberta. As gas prices are presently very low compared to where it has been in the past few years WHY would the government want to take more now. The impact of this is that industry dollars will be unable to continue to drill for this product and on top of this many of the wells will become uneconomic and we will find many gas wells in this province shut in. When this happens what will happen to the dollars that would go into the provinces pockets. On top of this has the governement looked at how much it makes every two weeks at Alberta Crown land sales. The money that industry will be able to spend and hand over to the province is going to be much much lower. Also when the NEP was imposed upon the O & G industry in the early 1980's approximately 85,000 jobs were lost. Does the Alberta government have any idea how many jobs will be lost this time around and then how does that effect the economy of our Province. People will be potential be facing the home foreclosures as we experiencedat that time. The small O & G companies and the royalties trust are struggling enough today with the impact of Oct 31/06 and are now desperately trying to reinvent themselfves I am so confused as to why our governments in this country keep pushing this industry down and keep expecting it to reinvent itself over and over again. Our basin in Western Canada is becoming more mature every day and this industry can only take so many hits. IF this government insists on moving forward with itsdecision it will be a much worse blood bath than the last time Alberta was put in this position. By moving forward with this we will not have as much money for education, health care, infracture or for supporting our single Moms and their children or our seniors living on the poverty line. Is this worth it. I would like to understand how the people that we have elected to protect us are actually looking to destroy our quality of life. THINK OF THE RIPEL EFFECT YOU ARE CAUSING. You have already stopped what is happening behind the doors of the O & G companies - daily projects are being cancelled due to economics. Rig and crews are already sitting and IF you do this more will be sitting, next will be lay off sin the sector. Now people will be drawing on EI to exist - what a pull on the economy of this Country. Now how much have you really gained or has the province truly LOST and ultimately has HURT and HURT deeply the people of this province in every possible way |
| RRE5084 |
It seems to me that the recommendations under the Royalty Panel Review (the "Proposed Recommendations") completely ignore the implication on capital that has or would have been invested by domestic and foreign investors. If the Alberta Government were to enact the Proposed Recommendations, it would be making a call that a significantly reduced return on capital invested is adequate for the risk being taken by these companies (oilsands, E&P co's, service co's). If that is the case, would the Alberta Government, representing the "people" of Alberta that allegedly called for these royalty reforms, then be comfortable reinvesting the $16.3 billion in the Heritage Fund into these ventures under such a regime? If the reward for the risk being taken is inadequate for the Alberta Government under these Proposed Recommendations, then why should it be deemed adequate for anyone else's capital, including mine? I suggest various levels of Government stop making important business decisions on the basis of political agenda and the ultimate goal of trying to retain their political office for as long as they can. |
| RRE5085 |
Hello my Alberta Government! The royalty increases as currently proposed would not be good for me as a single Albertan for the following three reasons: 1) I fear that the energy company that I work for [Information Removed]will no longer carry out current and future projects because the economics will not be viable. Much development simply will not continue and/or happen in Alberta. This could very well translate to the loss of my position/job (ie no futher development, only maintenance/minimal attention on current petroleum revenue properties), most probably the loss of the jobs of contractors that work with our group (in the office in Calgary, and also in the field and field offices), less spending for new drills, expansion of facilites, etc. I do not want to lose my job, and I would not like to see any of my collegues lose their jobs either. 2) I worry that I could lose my condo or in the least lose money in the purchase of my home if the real estate market is affected in Calgary by job losses, etc. city-wide (and province-wide). As it currently is, with interest rates rising, the mortgage is becoming more and more difficult to carry. If I was to be losing value on the property itself as well, I would have to consider moving, and most probably it would be moving out of province (to BC or Saskatchewan). If I were to lose my job AND lose money on selling my property, you can imagine I would be devestated. I can only imagine what would happen to families. 3) I am seriously concerned about a coming North-American recession aggravated by the situation in the US mortgage industry and the effects on American and now Canadian banks. Subsequent disturbances in the economics of our province (and investment by American and other companies in the infrastructure and economy of Alberta, and the jobs, etc. associated), following the changes to the tax laws affecting the Income Trusts not too long ago, may be just too much for the Albertan Economy to weather. I am already losing investment income from mutual funds and stocks and other instruments, and I don't like the picture of the future of our country (because the economic situation of Alberta WILL definitely affect the whole country) that I am glimpsing with these proposed changes to the royalty regime. I will probably move my money if not myself personally out of this country if these things happen, and as a direct result of the decisions that you are contemplating at this time. And that would be a shame, wouldn't you agree? Please consider doing any changes VERY slowly and fairly, with agreement and consultation from all industry businesses that will be affected. There are highly trained an experienced economists and business leaders in the Oil & Gas community that have important and logical reasons to be concerned with the proposed royalty changes. Please consider all short and long-term repercussions that extend beyond the Oil & Gas industry, and not only political agendas. I trust thier judgement in these matters more than I trust yours. And you cannot deny that what is good for BUSINESS in Alberta is good for Alberta and Alberta citizens (me). Thank-you very much for your consideration of my words and opinions. [Information Removed] |
| RRE5086 |
We strongly urge you to consult with the industry before imposing any changes to the current royalty program. We currently live in rural Alberta between Calgary and Edmonton, but we both were employed in the oil & gas sector for most of our careers. It may seem like the oil companies make far too much profit, but they ask their employees to work very hard and be committed, while at the same time treating their employees very well. I worked for a private company, and was never able to share in the rewards when times were good or bad. Once I went to work for the public company, I couldn't believe my good fortune. I had no desire to leave Alberta because of that. I have always liked the fact that Ralph Klein believed too much government involvement isn't always a good thing. I have seen what that can do, because I was born and raised in Saskatchewan. Things have already slowed this past year in Alberta, and therefore the time couldn't be worse for changing the royalty structure without the consent of the industry. There are several properties for sale in our area, and believe me, not much is moving. I feel it is partly due to the uncertainty involving the slowdown, as well as this new royalty debate fiasco. Let us pause and pick a more upbeat time to make changes. Thank you, [Information Removed] |
| RRE5087 |
Now is not the time to back down from the Oil Company scare tatics. For those oil companies that are threatening to pull out with their investments, the oil will still be there for other companies to invest in. |
| RRE5088 |
Jobs, jobs, jobs. People like good jobs. |
| RRE5089 |
I am an Albertan, a conservative and pro-business. I am confused and stunned as to how the Stelmach government believes that the proposed royalty changes will have a positive impact on this province. I appreciate the fact that the royalty regime should be fair and as such if there is a disparity in that it should be addressed. However, I also understand that the province needs to remain competitive to attract investment. The oil and gas industry is very capital intensive and the proposed royalty changes will drastically reduce the provinces ability to attract investment capital. Furthermore, the structure of the proposed changes is such that the government is eliminating the whole risk-reward principal that fuels this industry. The proposed change to reduce the royalties on low deliverability wells but increase the royalties on high deliverability wells can only lead to one outcome. The overall royalty take in the province could likely be eroded as the explorers who take the risk to discover the high deliverability wells will stop exploring. This may not seem to have an impact immediately; however, the effects of this shift away from exploration will be felt in the years to come as the royalty base begins to diminish and is not replaced because there is no incentive for companies to explore. I am appalled at the way the Stelmach government has proposed to unveil this proposal to industry. Well, I suppose I should say, the government dropped it on the industry without any forewarning and without any input. The government is downplaying the input CAPP could provide in finding some balance in a change in the royalty structure vs maintaining a pro-business climate. Alberta has become debt free largely due to the oil and gas industry. I do not think the government understands the amount of businesses that are directly and indirectly related to this industry. The province is booming and it is not a function of forestry, mining, farming, technology or manufacturing. The province is being short sighted in its approach to the royalty restructuring. The oil and gas industry faces many uncertainties every day which range, notwithstanding the generality of the foregoing, from swinging commodity prices, supply and demand issues, increasing supply of LNG's, world political instability, rising costs due to labour shortages. Canada, in theory, as a democratic and politically stable country, had established itself as a predictable environment within which to invest. However, with the federal royalty trust announcement in October 2006 and now the provincial royalty change announcement, we are quickly disproving the long standing theory that we are a country with political and economic stability within which to invest. Furthermore, in the instant the royalty change announcement was made, companies started to re-evaluate their positions in both BC and Saskatchewan in terms on investment opportunities. If the government proceeds to implement the royalty changes announced, the industry will speak loudly by re-directing its investment to those places which acknowledge the risk involved. On another note, I appreciate the effort that was likely expended to review the royalty situation and assess what may be required for change. But, I wonder whether or not a broader approach was even considered before announcing the results of the panel review? Did the panel consider the economic dominos that a change in the investment levels may bring? It would appear that there was no consideration given to the level of impact this decision would create throughout the economy in this province. For example, I grew up in a small town in north west Alberta. There are currently 6 hotels under construction in this town and there was no new construction of this sort for at least 15 years prior. The new hotels are being constructed as an indirect link to the oil and gas industry which is now active in this area and creating additional jobs and opportunities. I would not be surprised to watch business after business in this province fail as the royalty changes get implemented. Did the provincial government learn nothing from the backlash against the royalty trust announcement in October? With no proposed grandfathering or transition period, the government is telling industry that they are of no value. It's insane! Who do you think voted you into power? Moderated changes to the royalty structure may very well be warranted. However, I urge the government to re-think its approach and make sure they resort back to the fundamental principal of business ---- RISK VS REWARD!! If companies can't get to the reward in this province, they will look to other areas that they can. Keep the economy strong by supporting business. Supporting business ultimately lends itself to the people of this province being able to provide for themselves as opposed to relying on the government handouts of the past. I can not express strongly enough the negative impact this decision will have on the industry. I have always been a conservative and this government has made me question what that stands for. I wonder, do I have to vote liberal because I just can't support what this conservative government stands for? What an awful thought, but it is very poignant and true. The only positive that I can see in this situation is that I am now determined to become more involved in the political decision making of this province and will be putting forth and effort to ensure that the existing government doesn't ruin this province and the economy herein. [Information Removed] |
| RRE5090 |
I don't think we should grandfather royalties. I don't think we should increase royalties on gas unless certain price threshholds are reached. |
| RRE5091 |
This royalty review should have taken place many years ago.I think it is a good and honest report. If there is a fault in it,s conclusion,it,s that it did,nt go far enough in describing the negative effects the oil boom has had on our society.As a public employee,I have had my wages losing out to the increasing cost of living and inflationary rate increases for a number of years.The extra money,s collected from fair royalty rates should be put into education,health care and infrastructure projects.This resource belongs to the people and the first people to benefit from this resource are the owners.As a [Information Removed]in the [Information Removed]with 26 years of experience,I have seen the oil and gas industry paying there employees increasing amounts for wages.Was it not the public sector who were asked by Mr. klein in 1993 to take a 5% wage cut to help pay down the Provincial debt?We all took the cut and Mr. Klein said we would be rewarded and we would be rewarded when the debt was payed off.Some reward.Higher municipal taxes,higher costs for goods and services and lower buying power because this same government did not keep up with the budget allotments.It,s time all the people got there fair share and not just the resourse industry. In closing,I would like to remind you that it is only some people reaping the rewards of this bonanza.A lot of average Joe,s have been left benind.Ordinary,hard working 9-5 ,tax paying,voting people.It,s time we benefitted from OUR asset. [Information Removed] |
| RRE5092 |
Think it will have a determintal affect on the economy of Alberta long term. Also, if you can name another industry that where when things are booming for them, the government increases taxes that would be great. Singling out one industry over another doesn't work. Especially when almost every other industry is linking either directly or indirectly to the oil/gas industry. |
| RRE5093 |
What a deceitful scumbag. We waited for the royalty decision and all we got was an infomercial. |
| RRE5094 |
I have said from the beginning....take it easy on the oil companies. Hit them a little at a time. Please do not cause a recession here. You will only be impeached. I will have no choice but to give up my house and go on welfare (which I will do-as many Albertans will do) What you will(might ) make now on royalties will only be lost on massive layoffs , uic -welfare claims...as well as a higher crime rates. We all know that the "oil" makes alot of money but they control the economy for now. I have worked only 1 week in the past 2 1/2 months and now I fear I may lose everything because of your "cowboy" attitude. As much I hate to say ...you will lose this fight before it starts. The people have the final say! Please think about the welfare of ALL Albertans before your political agenda. |
| RRE5095 |
Why is there a need to increase royalties when the government has no debt and is running fiscal surpluses? Shouldn't the government be giving back in the form of lower taxes instead of making what amounts to an ill conceived cash grab? If this goes through, you will lose my support. |
| RRE5096 |
I have voted Conservative for nearly 40 years but if the Stelmach government does not endorse and enact the essential elements of the Royalty Reviwe Panel's, and the Auditor General's reports on royalties, I will NOT vote Conservative in the next provincial election. |
| RRE5097 |
I have taken a close look at the royalty review package and am deeply concerned that the provincial government will take this report at face value. It would seem that the review panel saw only upside in increasing royalties and made a significant effort to state that these royalty increases would not adversely affect our economy and would assist in lowering the hyper-inflation that we are suffering. These comments seem rediculous in light of the current decrease in gas drilling in this province with the lower gas prices we are seeing this year. High costs and low gas prices have taken an extreme toll on our activity. One only has to look at the record drilling pace south of the border for shallow gas and resource plays to see that we are not in a significant competitive position relative to our neighbours to the south. Althought there may be some room to move on royalties, I hope some common sense is applied to the royalty re-evaluation or you can guarantee that our current level of 3% employment will not be maintained for long |
| RRE5098 |
I question the assumption that raising royalties will not cause significant reductions in the current and future investments in all aspects of the oil and gas industry. If that one assumption is wrong, by raising rates it would hinder a thriving industry at a time when it should be using it's strong prices to expand and generate more opportunity in our community. Instead of generating more tax money, it could limit the same hard won growth that the government has built during the slower times of the 1990's. That growth currently gives lots of 'royalty' money to Albertan's in the form of pay checks and that shouldn't be sacrificed to increase the governments share. It could hurt a lot of Albertan's by increasing the governments share so what programs is Alberta going to spend the money on and who would it help to make it worth that risk? I hope the government listens to industry and if they raise royalties, they do so in a manner that still encourages oil companies to do good business here. I hope other Albertan's believe the same thing because it would be a shame to have a bust while other oil and gas rich area's are thriving. |
| RRE5099 |
Oil and gas companies have been making billions of dollars off Alberta's natural resources for years. These resources belong to everyone, but we, the people, have not been getting our fair share! Not only are these oil and gas companies making huge profits, they are also destroying the environment in the process! The Athabasca river is going to be in sorry shape in a few years due to water removal, and the pollution and waste are of great concern and it will be Alberta's problem, not the oil companies of course, to fix. Therefore, I am in support of significantly raising the royalties as I see the oil and gas companies getting a sweet deal in comparison to other countries, and also for getting away with raping Alberta's environment. I certainly hope that the government will not back down when big oil and gas barks......... |
| RRE5100 |
While I haven't read the report in its entirety, I have read the news stories to believe that I can offer an informed opinion. The bottom line is this. If Newfoundland Premier Danny Williams had the [Expletive] to stand up to the big oil companies and win - if Premier Stelmach cannot find the guts would speak volumes as to where this government's priorities lie. Regardless of the bluster and cries from the oil industry about how the new royalty scheme would cripple our economy, they're conveniently ignoring worldwide realities. The demand for oil is going down anytime soon, despite calls to clean up the environment. I don't see the average Albertan, nor North American for that matter, ditching their big-[Expletive] trucks and SUVs in record numbers, despite the constant escalation of pump prices. The populations of China and India are never going to shrink, nor is their need for oil. The Americans are constantly stirring things up in the middle-east, and there's always going to be instabliity with Arab oil producing nations. And I won't even bother to go into the instability of oil from African nations. The reality is that Alberta has the most generous royalty scheme, and one of the most stable eco-social environment to operate in. The oil companies have no fear of terrorist blowing up their sits and facilities as in other nations. They don't have to worry about corruption at the highest levels of government and certification. Incompentance perhaps, but rarely litte corruption. And the demand for oil isn't going away. As a regular Albertan, I'm not demanding an outrageous rate. But rather a rate that's in line with other nations. I want the Syncrudes, and Suncors to pay their fair share of instructure like roads, and sewers, and water treatment facilities, which are severely overstressed. If there needs to be some concessions in the way of grandfathering, or a REASONABLE adjustment to the rates, that's ok too. But to dismiss it outright and let the oil companies dictate preserving the status quo - that's unacceptable. |
| RRE5101 |
I beleive that my government should take the Review Panel's report and act on it as proposed. All the parties in this dispute will lobby for their point of view. But the Review Board was an independant group that makes an unbias suggestion. |
| RRE5102 |
It doesn't matter how much comes in from royalties if we keep blowibng it all on program spending. 100% of oil and gas revenue should be put in the Heritage Fund. Royalty rates should not be adjusted until that policy decision is made. Until then the oil cmpanies can argue succesfully that this is nothing more than a tax grab. |
| RRE5103 |
Please implement all recomarndations of the report.It is about Alberta's future and our kids not short term gain by enrgy sector and Political partronage. |
| RRE5104 |
I strongly disagree with the government's view /stand on implenting a 20% Alberta Royalty Tax , does the government not care about the people of Alberta? This tax would have devasting effects on Alberta's economy, oil companies will move elsewhere, companies will cease investing money into our province. Thousands of people will lose their jobs. The government should listen to the people of Alberta and scrap this outrageous idea. |
| RRE5105 |
1. Alberta has been extracting oil and gas resource far longer than Norway, and even though both "countries" have similiar populations, Norway has over 200 billion dollars in reserves built up, while Alberta has little more than the 12 billion dollars that Peter Locheed used to start the Heritage Trust Fund.. During our last trip to Norway [Information Removed], we noticed a distinct prosperity among the citizens, excellent roads, a cleaner countryside, and beautiful houses. By contrast, our infrastructure is crumbling, junk litters our province in places, and a debate continues endlessly about low cost housing. 2. We do not know for a fact how much oil and gas is actually being extracted from our resource by the multi-nationals, and on the amount that they do report, we ask for royalties that are among the lowest in the world. 3. The northern third of Alberta is being raped, but typically, since most Albertans live south of the centre of the province, and know and care little about the north, nobody cares about the long term loss of the tar sands as long as prosperity accrues to the south. 4.The multinational oil companies will never stop their profit taking from our resource, and each time rumblings in Alberta surface about increasing royalties, they purposely slow down production and claim they are reducing investment. Each time our government falls for the act. 5. THE MULINATIONALS NEED ALBERTA MORE THAN WE NEED THEM. INCREASE THE ROYALTIES AND IGNORE THE THREATS OF SLOWDOWN AND REDUCED INVESTMENTS. ANY JOB LOSSES ARE THE RESULT OF THE INFLATED PACE THE OIL COMPANIES THEMSELVES HAVE SET, AND THOSE JOBS WERE FILLED LARGELY BY IMPORTED LABOUR. Signed; [Information Removed][Information Removed] [Information Removed], Alberta |
| RRE5106 |
Although I don't want to lose the royalty money, I also don't want to go back to the 80 when we had no jobs here. I know a number of companies that are waiting for this decision, whether they are going to do business in Alberta or not. ALBERTA IS OIL, DO NOT LOSE OUR JOBS ELSE. I believe this will happen, |
| RRE5107 |
I feel the Royalty Review Report will be bad for Albertans and this report need to be reviewed again - fairly with the Oil Companies and the Province ...using current costs and numbers. Lets not hurt Alberta's economy by hurting our backbone of what makes us strong - just for a quick cash grab. |
| RRE5108 |
I think that the oil industry has been getting a sweet heart deal long enough and that the Royalty Review Panel recommendations should be implemented in full. The oil companies need the oil and may slow down development for a while but they will be back. It will be a good thing if they do slow development for a while since the Alberta economy is far too strong right now anyway. [Information Removed] |
| RRE5109 |
Ed, the Edm Sun has reported you saying "it's simply wrong to say that Alberta's current royalty regime has been a failure." Sir, that is the biggest [expletive] of [expletive] yet. You know damn well, if your previous party leaders had not been in the pockets of Big Oil we would not be in this mess to begin with. It's up to you to fix it NOW. Your party and nobody else is responsible for this, nobody else has been in charge.... even though you damn bullheaded Conservtives have been good advice for more than 30 yrs.... it has simply been ignored. Well the citizens of Alberta are no longer gulible idiots farmers that vote for you time and time again. Are u gonna magically gonna find a backbone and stand up to Big Oil or have they already '[expletive]' you? [Information Removed] |
| RRE5110 |
I believe that the royalty report reccomendations should be fully implemented. It was able to give a spin-free recommendation; now that it is out all kinds of doom and gloom scenarios are being spun. Never again will industry be so candid on input to the government - the spin doctors will be telling us how lucky we are to have people come here and make lots of money on a non-renewable, hard to replace resource! Short term natural gas prices are down, however it was not that long ago that they were at a premium. So we are dealing with what is currently marginally economical; two years ago I wonder what the argument would have been? We need a fair and transparent royalty mechanism; the Auditor General's report shows that we have not been getting that! Should we retroactively go after those foregone revenues? Once the royalty decision is made, we need a legal requirement to have 5 yr royalty reviews, proper data collection and public legally accountable reporting of the data collected. Let the facts speak for themselves! |
| RRE5111 |
Like any system the public's methods of allocation of resources needs to be renewed periodically. Certainly the risks associated with some ventures needs to be shared and governments do that with incentives. In my opinion all incentives should have a short shelf life. In the case of our royalty system it is quite clear that the companies that could marginally make a profitable venture at 20+$/bbl oil can certainly do so when the price is 4 times greater. In my 35 year career in strategic planning and large capital project management i have seen very few big projects that were not reasonably conservative through a combination of risk and capital sharing. Although the timing is coincidental i believe that the raise in oil prices and the heat of the economy is not sustainable and certainly not good for most albertans. The companies that choose to pull some investment capital our of our province are doing us a favor (although it looks like they're seeking pity... not from here). In the history of man the standards of life have been directly related to the ability to acquire and harness more concentrated forms of energy. There is no doubt that with the expectations of increased quality of life in the world that the energy demand will continue to rise and we should not fear having a market for our products. (On a separate note the government has / is doing a poor job of keeping the raw material conversion industries here.... let's put some of the investment capital into value added industry and not worry about investing in more extracting for the greater good of others) [Information Removed] |
| RRE5112 |
The province is presently raking billions in royalties any increase in these"taxes" to the industry that is driving our economy could have devistating effects.The government should be happy with the present royalty regime.Remember that not only does the oil and gas industry feed billions into government coffers in royalties and other fees for lease licensing and land sales but they also employ tens of thousands of people which in turn supplies the government with more tax money.You should take a page from the book of King Ralph and start using what you have more efficiently rather than going to the golden goose and trying to kill it. |
| RRE5113 |
Good morning Honourable Mr. Stelmac. I am writing to ask that you to slow down with the royalty review, and make the correct decision. The information given to yourself is inaccurate and unsustainable. We as Albertans have not been given enough opportunity to voice our opinions regarding this dilemma. I currently work in the oil and gas sector as well farm in the [Information Removed] area. I have been able to balance out the hardships of the farm with employment in the oil and gas sector. Unfortunately, the farm has not been able to support my family so I have chosen a career in the oil and gas sector. I very much enjoy my job and the people I work with. I treat the farm as a lifestyle, but not a career. My career is oil and gas. I am employed by the second largest oil and gas company in Alberta, and I have been advised by management that if the Royalty Review recommendations are adopted, then our company would effective "exit" all conventional operations in Alberta with in 5 years. This is not "greed" that we are basing this decision on, but rather economics. This will affect every one in Alberta. From roads, to hospital, Schools, Sports, everything... Even the agriculture and forestry sectors will be affected. There will be large royalties for the first year, but as the marginal wells start to decline, they will be shut in sooner and drilling will essentially be halted. All of our contractors and service companies will no longer be needed in a very short time. The effects will cause bankruptcies, housing foreclosures, and the skilled labour that Alberta has work so hard to attract will be leaving. With a closing note all I can say is I remember 1981 when Trudeau killed the industry and many people/business's struggled to make ends meet. Many people left Alberta for other Provinces and industries. I would do the same this time. If I were unable to continue with my profession in the peace country, I would move my family to a place where I felt Government really did listen to reason. Should you wish to discuss this matter further, please call. Thank you for your time in this matter. [Information Removed] |
| RRE5114 |
To Premier Stelmach: This letter is to urge you, as Premier, to stand up for the citizens of the province and accept the top recommendations of the Royalty Review Panel. To do anything less would be to make a Compromise on a Compromise. That is not acceptable. Nor is it fair to those to whom you are responsible. As Premier, Mr. Stelmach, you and your government represent a steward of these non-renewable resources. It is on behalf of the citizens that you are our ‘custodians’ of these resources that belong to all citizens of Alberta. I had the privilege of presenting to the Royalty Review Panel last spring and at that time I expressed my appreciation to the Premier for setting up such a panel. I was also impressed with the attention and interest shown by the members of the panel. It was a breath of fresh air in this Province to see the clear message presented: that the resources belong to the citizens – and that citizens were not getting their fair share. We sincerely appreciated your public release of this Report. Since the release of the Panel’s report, however, I have been extremely alarmed to see the powerful, bullying, actions taken by the petroleum companies. I was disappointed that you, as Premier, immediately felt it was appropriate to allow the Coe’s and their executives private time with your Deputy Premier, Ron Stevens, behind closed doors, and the public would only be given the names of the companies represented – not what was presented. I find this is an affront to the democratic rights of the citizens. These corporations had the same opportunities as citizens to present their position to the Panel – in fact, they had far more resources at their fingertips than ordinary citizens. It is particularly offensive that these corporations can meet behind closed doors – presenting material without any public or press allowed to observe. Why were the Panel members not allowed to review these new ‘facts’ and ‘statistics’? The petroleum companies have lost a great deal of respect in the community by their bullying and brash actions and their demand for ‘special hearings’. Particularly repugnant is their secretive funding of so-called ‘grassroots’ organizations and fear-mongering among their own employees and citizens in general. I would urge Premier Stelmach to stand up for the Citizens of Alberta by adopting the Panel’s Report to its fullest – after all it is already a very low estimate. As a Panel Member, Evan Chrapko, stated: We came in under some of the advice we got, particularly in the oilsands. I probably would have held out for higher, especially if I knew the ensuing debate was going to be conducted on one side of the equation. We cut a balance and we did it on the low end of what might have been possible." (Calg Sun Oct 19/07) [Information Removed] |
| RRE5115 |
Please stand firm on your decision - increasing the royalties to the proposed levels is the best thing for ALBERTAN'S . I have extensively reviewed data from both sides of the argument, and can truly say I support my elected Premier and his team, so don't back down. [Information Removed] |
| RRE5116 |
I work at a Land Broker in Calgary. Many of our Clients have already announced cutbacks if the new Royalties are implemented. This past year we have already seen a 35% decrease in Market Activity. Our Company experienced two sets of lay off's last Christmas. If the Royalties are raised, I'm sure we will face more. Most of Calgary is employed in some way by the Oil and Gas sector. I went to school to be able to thrive in our growing city. Please don't take that away. Job loss will start in Oil and Gas and trickle down the chain. Everyone will feel it, and it won't be welcomed. |
| RRE5117 |
Dear Mr. Stelhmach, I am writing to you as I am very concerned about the report you received from the Royalty Review Panel which says the Alberta needs to increase our Royalties by 20%. I manage a small Oilfield Service Company in Central Alberta. I have been with this company for 11 years and we have just came through 10 of the roughests months that I have ever seen. The oilfield in our area is starting to make a slow recover now but if you go ahead with the recommendations from the Royalty Review Panel and increase the royalties by 20 %, we may as well shut the doors. As it is ,with the Canadian Dollar being on par with the USA ,the Oil Companies may very well plan on spending less in Alberta. If you decide to increase the royalties as well it will be a double hit to us as a company as well as to many other Albertans who make their living in the oilfield. Please don't make any rash decisions in this matter. Talk to the OIl & Gas Companies and see if we can't come to some kind of compromise instead of jumping in head first and doing damage to the industry which as helped make Alberta rich. Regards, [Information Removed] |
| RRE5118 |
I think we need to raise the royalties, Alberta needs more Doctors, Nurses and Hospitals, we also need more schools. The oil and gas companies get lots of money. Alberta needs to take care of their people. |
| RRE5119 |
I agree with a review of the oil & gas sector royalties, but I don't agree with the increases the review panel is proposing. As a consultant in the industry, I have seen first hand what that effect of a slow down in the oil patch is causing due to a decrease in gas prices. If the Alberta government implements all of the panels findings, Alberta will go from being a rich province with low unemployment to a rich province with high unemployment. Jobs losses will be increased and these people will lose their homes. I agree with government over an oil & gas royalty review, but not to the extent the panel is proposing. |
| RRE5120 |
On September 18, the Alberta Royalty Review Panel (ARRP) appointed by the Alberta Government released its report to both the Government and the people of Alberta. This report recommends significant changes to the oil and g |
