WATCH ABOVE: Brian Gallant sat down with Global’s Laura Brown on the eve of his legislative debut as New Brunswick’s premier to talk about about his political priorities.
FREDERICTON – New Brunswick Premier Brian Gallant says his government will introduce legislation for a moratorium on fracking for shale gas during the upcoming legislature session.
He said in an interview with Global News that he wants to introduce the legislation before Christmas. If it isn’t passed by the break, he’ll reconvene the legislature early in the new year.
When asked if the moratorium will cover exploring for natural gas, Gallant said it will be a policy of government and businesses will “react the way that they react.”
“It’s not always as clear as water, what stage they undertake what type of extraction method and what type of processes so we’re going to have a policy in which we’ll apply to all businesses across the province, not singling out anyone,” Gallant said.
“But of course, there are certain businesses that will say it will impact them more than others.”
Bruce Fitch, the Opposition Progressive Conservative leader, says he is reserving judgment until he sees the legislation.
But Fitch says if the moratorium threatens to hurt the energy industry and force businesses to shut down, his party will oppose it.
The fall legislative session – the first for Gallant as premier – starts Wednesday with a throne speech.
With files from The Canadian Press
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