One of the objectives of the Atlantic Accord Implementation Acts (Acts) is to “ensure that the Offshore Area is managed in a manner which will promote economic growth and development in order to optimize benefits accruing to Newfoundland [and Labrador] in particular and to Canada as a whole.”

An important aspect of the C-NLOER’s mandate is the administration of provisions of Section 45 of the Acts which relate to industrial and employment benefits from the development of oil and gas resources in the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Area.

The Acts require that before any work or activity is authorized in the Offshore Area, a Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Benefits Plan must be approved by the C-NLOER. A Benefits Plan must contain specific provisions in relation to contracting and employment, supply of goods and services, research and development, education and training, diversity plans, and the establishment of an office in the province. For further information on Benefits Plans, refer to Benefits Plan Requirements.