New Brunswick and Ottawa have signed an agreement that will see a co-ordinated approach to environmental impact assessments for major projects.

“We’re committed to working closely with our federal partners and our local partners to meet both regulators’ requirements and to deliver on the goal of one project, one review,” New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt said at an announcement Tuesday.

Holt said New Brunswick has a strong, evidence-based EIA process.

“Ottawa’s recognition of that strength allows us to create more efficiency without compromising the environmental protections New Brunswickers expect,” she said.

Federal Internal Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc, attending the announcement on behalf of Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin, said major projects move forward best when all levels of government work together.

“This co-operation agreement between our two governments will drive real progress,” LeBlanc said. “Create good jobs, strengthen local industries and build long-term economic growth for communities across the province.”

LeBlanc said New Brunswick is the first province to sign such an agreement with the federal government.

The agreement implements the “one project, one review” approach, when possible, for all major projects in New Brunswick that require federal and provincial assessments.

It’s expected to result in faster project approvals and improved efficiency by reducing duplication.

Federal responsibilities will continue to be addressed through federal agencies’ participation in New Brunswick’s environmental impact assessment technical review committee.

New Brunswick Environment Minister Gilles LePage said the province’s EIA process includes agencies from all levels of government, ensuring all questions and feedback are addressed before final decisions are made.

“It was important to us that the integrity of process remained strong,” LePage said.