31.78. Sections 31.76 and 31.77, with the necessary modifications, apply to the Government when it exercises its power of authorization under sections 31.5 and 31.6 with respect to a water withdrawal that is subject to the environmental assessment procedure provided for in Division IV.1.
In addition, if it considers it necessary for greater protection of the environment, including aquatic ecosystems and wetlands, the Government may, when authorizing such a water withdrawal, prescribe requirements different from those prescribed by regulation of the Government.
A water withdrawal authorized by the Government is exempted from the authorization of the Minister required under section 31.75.