We are very fortunate to have these busy people volunteer their time to serve on this important new body and give us the benefit of their experience and expertise. The Energy Research Council will work with the Oil Sands and Research Division of the Energy Department, which promotes research and commercial application of research relating to oil sands, heavy oil, hydrogen, coal and other energy resources. The Oil Sands and Research Division was created in the Department restructuring and incorporates the activities of the former Alberta Oil Sands and Technology Research Authority. The Council's specific duties include advising on preparation of an overall plan for a research and development program, and advising on priorities for funding allocations. It will also advise on the major terms and conditions to be used in developing agreements with governments, agencies, private corporations, research and development organizations and other bodies.
Council members serve without pay but are eligible for reimbursement of travelling expenses.
After working as a field engineer with Schlumberger of Canada, Mr. Montemurro joined PanCanadian in 1965. He has served in a number of senior positions with the company, including Chief Engineer, Manager, General Manager and Vice-President, Development. In his current capacity, he is responsible for six divisions of PanCanadian Exploration, Development, Production, Safety, Environment and Community Relations, and Information Services. Well Servicing, a company which he and an associate owned and operated for 30 years. He began his career on the rigs in Turner Valley and later became scout and landman for the Royalite Oil Company.