Albertans are being encouraged to make submissions to the expert panel currently reviewing the province’s royalty and tax regime for energy resources.

Five public meetings have been scheduled to gather input, and a newly established Web site will allow submissions to be made online. The Royalty Review Panel will host meetings beginning April 23 in Grande Prairie, followed by Edmonton, Calgary, Fort McMurray, and Medicine Hat.

“The panel is committed to conducting a thorough and independent examination of Alberta’s royalty structure to ensure the system is meeting the needs of Albertans,” said Bill Hunter, Royalty Review Panel Chairman. “The views of Albertans are an important part of the review process. We look forward to meeting and hearing from all interested Albertans as part of developing recommendations, which will be submitted to the Minister of Finance by August 31.”

In February, the government announced an independent review of Alberta’s royalty and tax regime. The panel will make recommendations for the government’s consideration.

“As the owners of the province’s energy resources, Albertans must be confident that they are receiving a fair share from energy development through royalties, taxes, and fees,” said Lyle Oberg, Minister of Finance. “The royalty framework must strike the right balance between providing Albertans with a fair return and maintaining an internationally competitive system that allows the Alberta economy to continue to prosper.”