St. John's, Canada
Mr Andy Wells
Mayor of St John's
St. John's is the place to be if you are interested in the eastern Canada oil play. Located on the North East coast of North America, St. John's is the capital city of the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. St. John's is the centre of commerce, government and culture, and today as a result of its proximity to the massive hydrocarbon potential of the Atlantic Margin, it is rapidly developing as the commercial and technical centre of the burgeoning Canadian offshore petroleum industry.
Newfoundland and Labrador now produces almost 50% of Canada's conventional light crude, enabling St. John's, to play an integral role in the industry. Canada's most eastern city is on the cusp of reservoirs in the Jeanne d'Arc, Laurentian and Orphan Basins, among other promising deposits.
Production in the Newfoundland and Labrador offshore received a boost in late 2005 when Husky Energy's White Rose project produced first oil. The Terra Nova project continues to produce at about 130,000 barrels per day and the province's first oil project, Hibernia, continues to exceed expectations. There is optimism for the industry as a number of exploration wells and seismic programs will be carried out in 2006. St. John's is home base to 350 industry-related service and supply firms, and is a focal point for industry-related business and investment opportunities.
Historically, the City gained prominence as a commercial trading harbour and international fishing port. Today, as a result of its strategic position and economic connection to the ocean, there exists specialized and diverse marine expertise. St. John's, now known as a "Centre of Ocean Excellence", is the Canadian centre for training, research and development in oceans engineering, transportation, and harsh environment technologies. In addition, educational institutions offer specialized oil and gas programming for Canadian and international markets.
For companies and families relocating, St. John's offers a natural environment, quality educational and medical facilities, clean air, safe streets and inexpensive housing. St. John's is recognized internationally for it's rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts community that offers internationally renown original theater, dance and music.
As a World Energy City, St. John's recognizes the oil and gas industry as an important factor in present and future development, and works to maximize economic activity and benefits.