56(1)On written request by an operator, the Minister may exempt the operator in writing from a requirement of this Act or the regulations if
(a)
the Minister is of the opinion that there is an exceptional and extraordinary circumstance that warrants an exemption and that the exemption is in the public interest, or
(b)
the exemption is permitted by the regulations.
56(2)In determining whether to grant an exemption under paragraph (1)(b), the Minister shall assess the operator’s request for an exemption against the criteria prescribed by regulation.