The Saskatchewan Oil and Gas Show, held last week in Weyburn, had many of the attributes that people have come to expect from the biennial gathering.
You had a wide variety of exhibitors who promoted their products and services. Many of them brought the latest in technological innovations with them, showcasing the advancements that continue to be made in the industry.
Some politicians were eager to make an appearance and pay tribute to the industry, the people who work in it on a daily basis, and the energy sector's contributions to the economy.
Among those present was former prime minister Stephen Harper. It wasn't the first time he was in the southeast – he's been in the region at least three times since 2002 – but it's still a special time whenever a former PM is in the area.
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe spent the first day touring the grounds and reminding everyone about how he values the sector. Other speakers brought lots of information to the event as well.
And in keeping with oil show tradition, numerous awards were handed out, recognizing those who have made invaluable contributions to the industry throughout their careers.
One of the more interesting announcements during the show came when the premier revealed that the province was introducing a new oil and gas high school course that would be offered through distance learning in Saskatchewan. For those who are interested in a career in the industry, it would be a valuable head start.
If you haven't been to the oil show before, and if you're able to attend a future edition, it's well worth your time. From the exhibitions to the people present, the oil show has a lot to offer. And for those who are skeptical or even highly critical of the industry, it's a chance to learn the truth about the energy sector.
This brings us to the latest attack against the industry by the federal government.
Bill C-59 – described as an act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament last November and the 2023 federal budget – is currently before the senate.
During the oil show, the provincial government expressed concern over amendments to the federal Competition Act that the province says would enable environmental activists to bring forth complaints to the Competition Tribunal, which could result in maximum fines to companies of between $10-$15 million (or three per cent of their annual gross revenues).
The province says someone could complain about energy companies advertising their sustainability records or defending the energy sector.
The reverse onus amendments, according to the province, would subject companies to punitive financial penalties if they assert their environmental records without "adequate and proper substantiation in accordance with internationally-recognized methodology, the proof of which lies on the person making the representation" rather than the complainant.
A deeper look at the bill reveals that it's not just the energy sector that this bill is targeting. Other industries that make false claims could also be subject to a fine.
But you would have to think the environmental lobby would be eager to pounce on this legislation. And even if the environmental lobby group is lying, there are some people out there who will believe – and share – anything that fits their agenda.
It's unlikely you'll find anything in Bill C-59 that would punish those who make false complaints against businesses, energy or otherwise.
We're all for truth in advertising and being honest with claims. But if an energy company is taking strides to be greener and protect the environment, then they should be able to promote it.
If an environmental group wants to claim false advertising against an energy company, then it has to be able to provide proof of its allegation. Accountability is a two-way street.
We should be proud of the energy sector in our country, the impact it has on our economy, the jobs it creates and yes, the steps that are being taken to reduce emissions. Some people don't want that story to be told.
The Saskatchewan Oil and Gas Show provides a lot of information on the efforts being made by the energy sector to build a better world.
Companies shouldn't have to worry about being punished or publicly judged for honestly sharing their story.
