BIEAP/FREMP

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
RESPECTING THE COORDINATED MANAGEMENT OF
THE BURRARD INLET ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PROGRAM (BIEAP)
AND
THE FRASER RIVER ESTUARY MANAGEMENT PROGRAM (FREMP)

1. PURPOSE
This memorandum sets out the understanding and structure through which the BIEAP and the FREMP will be coordinated.

2. BACKGROUND
Through the end of March 1996, the FREMP and the BIEAP (the Programs) operated independently and under separate agreements. Over time, it became apparent that some aspects of both Programs were common and required a common approach. Also, the areas covered by each agreement were contiguous and issues in one area affected the other.
As a result, the Parties to each agreement resolved to implement a structure which would provide for the effective coordination of the Programs while, at the same time, providing for the distinct needs and priorities of the two individual areas.
The individual memoranda of understanding for the BIEAP and the FREMP are attached to this memorandum as Appendix A and B, respectively.

3. MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE
3.1 General
The management structure set out in Appendix C will carry on, beyond the end of March 1996, the activities presently covered by the Programs. There will be a common framework that deals with overall planning, management and policy direction for both the Burrard Inlet and the Fraser Estuary. There will also be separate operational Plans consisting of a 5 year Business Plan and a year to year Work Plan to deal with specific requirements and priorities of the Fraser Estuary and Burrard Inlet.

There is general consensus amongst the Parties that both of the current programs are management programs with action components. However, while many issues are common to both areas, the methodologies for dealing with them and their relative priority may differ between the two areas. Therefore, the management structure will provide opportunities for dealing with the common as well as the distinct factors between the two areas.

There is also consensus that “made in the Inlet/Estuary” approaches to policy and its application can enhance progress on the Programs. Therefore, the new structure provides a framework for addressing policy issues in a manner which facilitates measurable progress on achieving the goals and objectives set for the Fraser Estuary and Burrard Inlet.

The FREMP/BIEAP business falls into two broad categories. First, there is policy development, overall priority setting, and strategic management. Second, there are those operational issues which require coordinated decision making. The new structure provides for both categories.

In terms of policy development, priority setting and strategic management, matters include:

influencing the development and application of regulatory policy within the management areas and within areas outside the management areas where linkages are required to meet the objectives of the Programs
setting priorities
maintaining a high level commitment and sufficient resources
setting goals and objectives and monitoring progress towards their achievement
providing the interface between the Programs and the Boards/Agencies of the respective Parties

In terms of operational issues, examples include:

the project review processes
day-to-day management of the budgets
coordination of individual Action Programs to meet specified goals and objectives
providing technical support and input on policy issues
managing public involvement.

3.2 Overall Management and Policy Direction
Overall management and policy direction will be accomplished by a two-level structure.

First, there will be a Steering Committee involving the principals of each of the signing partners, namely: the Director General, Pacific Region, Environment Canada; the Director General, Pacific Region, Fisheries and Oceans Canada; the Deputy Minister, B.C. Environment; the Port Managers of the three Ports; and the Regional Manager, GVRD or their nominees. This group will meet annually to discuss progress of the Programs and to provide direction on matters that cannot be resolved at other levels in the structure.

Second, there will be a joint Management Committee that will deal with overall management and policy issues. This Committee will comprise the two Program Management Committees and will set broad goals and objectives for the two Programs, monitor progress towards their achievement, address and provide direction on policy matters, and report to the Steering Committee on issues requiring resolution. The joint Management Committee will select its Chair and Vice-Chair, by consensus, from the chairs of the FREMP and BIEAP Programs.
The structure provides a process for addressing and resolving matters involving individual agency policies and their application and a process for dealing with common issues affecting both areas and for coordinated reporting. It also provides the area specific attention required by the Parties with mandates involving less than the total area.

3.3 Operational Management
The operational aspects of delivery for each Plan will continue to be handled through two separate Memoranda of Understanding (see Appendices A & B). The action programs will be delivered by FREMP and/or BIEAP work groups, specific agency initiatives, or public/private partnerships. The Program Manager, supported by staff, will report routinely to the Management Committee and provide functional direction to action programs within the two areas.

The Management Committee will develop 5-year Business Plans that identify initiatives, priorities, resources, and funds on an annual basis. Also, on an ongoing basis, the Management Committee will look for efficiencies and for alternate funding opportunities such as through private sector partnerships.

Program budgets will be set for each of the Fraser Estuary and Burrard Inlet areas with costs charged against each Program in accordance with requirements for delivery of agreed work Plans.
Further, the Partner agencies will take on an enhanced role in providing access to program information.

3.4 Funding
The financial arrangements for each Program are set out in the individual Memoranda of Understanding (see Appendices A & B). The Fraser River Harbour Commission will act as banker for both Programs. Also, for consistency, preference will be given to appointing the same auditors for both Programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF the Parties hereto have executed this Memorandum.