With the oil industry becoming more politicized every day, engaging with governments and the public to promote the importance and legitimacy of Canada’s massive oilfield service industry has never been more important. Pipelines. Carbon taxes. Renewables. Climate change.
Some say the world would be a better place when there is no oil industry at all. Which is impossible. There will be no cost-effective replacement sources for hydrocarbon fuels anytime soon, particularly in a large cold country like Canada. So how can we sustain a voice about our important role in the economy?
With so many views on so many issues in the 21st century, governments and non-industry lobby groups trying to shape and change public policy can’t talk to everyone. The system is geared towards trade associations. That’s what the Petroleum Services Association is all about. PSAC has enjoyed 35 years of success as the single and most credible voice for Canada’s massive and vital oil and gas services sector.
The least known fact about our industry is Canada is the fifth largest producer of oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids in the world. Huge business. The downturn has affected the entire economy and virtually every province. Meanwhile rising taxes are putting further financial pressure on an industry already on its knees.
Advocacy for the services sector has never been more important. At the federal and provincial level public policy is pushing towards non-carbon alternatives. Costs are rising. Regulations are increasing. Somebody must stand up for the services sector because individual companies are too busy trying to survive to stand up for themselves.
Like everyone else, PSAC has not been insulated. Faced with laying off essential employees, companies have chosen to cut all discretionary costs. Like association dues. We understand. So PSAC is doing what everybody must do – retooling to make a positive contribution in the future.
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