Northern Development

by Robert Page

This penetrating examination of two landmark public policy forums, the Berger Inquiry, and the National Energy Board's hearings on northern pipeline development, addresses the problems of northern development. Professor Robert Page places these two policy forums within their broader historical contexts and reveals the myths and mistaken assumptions that have surrounded northern development environmental concerns, native land claims, technological problems and the enormous capital requirements of resource exploration in this region. The author shows how these various issues have shaped the courses and outcomes of both the Berger and National Energy Board investigations and the events since. The book also provides a special focus on these hearings as forums for public participation in the process of northern development policy making, and considers the role of the public interest group as a third particpant with government and business. As Canadians resume the complex task of balancing the interests of resource development with environmental concerns and the rights of native peoples, this perceptive book provides and essential foundation for the establishment of future northern development policies.

360 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1986