Royal Assent: Offshore Accord and Parks Acts

Summary#

This Canada Gazette notice records that on October 3, 2024 the Governor General signified royal assent to two federal bills: Bill C-49 (which amends the Canada—Newfoundland and Labrador Atlantic Accord Implementation Act and the Canada‑Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Resources Accord Implementation Act) and Bill C-76 (which amends the Canada National Parks Act). The entry was published in the Gazette on October 19, 2024 and also notes a standing order about private bills published November 20, 2021.

What it does#

• States that the Governor General signified assent in His Majesty’s name on October 3, 2024, by written declaration under the Royal Assent Act.
• Lists the two bills that received assent:
  • Bill C-49 — an Act to amend the Canada—Newfoundland and Labrador Atlantic Accord Implementation Act and the Canada‑Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Resources Accord Implementation Act (and make related changes to other Acts).
  • Bill C-76 — an Act to amend the Canada National Parks Act.
• Notes that section 5 of the Royal Assent Act says each Act is taken to be assented to on the day both houses of Parliament were notified.
• Reminds readers that Standing Order 130 (about notices for private bills) was published November 20, 2021, and gives the contact for the Private Members’ Business Office for more information.

Who's affected#

• Parties connected to offshore oil and gas in Newfoundland and Nova Scotia — companies, local service businesses, and provincial officials — may be affected by the changes in Bill C-49.
• People and organizations involved with national parks — park staff, visitors, nearby communities and stakeholders — may be affected by the changes in Bill C-76.
• The Gazette notice itself does not give the text or details of the amendments, so it is not possible from this notice alone to say exactly who will see which specific changes.

Why it matters#

• Royal assent is the formal step that lets a bill become an Act, so these entries mark those two laws moving into force (subject to any effective-dates or implementation rules set out in the Acts themselves).
• Changes to offshore accords can influence resource management, local jobs and provincial-federal arrangements. Changes to the Canada National Parks Act can affect park rules, management and public access.
• Because this notice does not include the full amendment texts, anyone directly affected should read the new Acts or seek further information from the offices named in the Gazette.