Politicians, citizens, and environmentalists are sending a united message to the Couillard government about Bill 106.
Back in June, the Quebec government tabled the bill.
It would make way for “Transition énergétique Québec,” a corporate body promoting energy innovation in the province.
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But the second part of the bill proposes the Petroleum Resources Act – which outlines a framework for controlled oil and gas development.
Those opposing the latter part of the bill say there are a number of reasons why it shouldn’t pass.
“It allows fracking,” said Carole Dupuis, from Regroupement vigilance hydrocarbures Québec (RVHQ), a Quebec citizens’ group. “Quebec has said no to fracking – we said no over and over again, over the years. We don’t want fracking, it’s dangerous for the water, it’s dangerous for many reasons and it destroys communities.”
Critics argue the first and second parts of the bill quite simply contradict each other and so they’re calling on the government to rework it.
“We’re saying to the Couillard government, it’s time to separate this bill because if you don’t, we’ll do all we can to stop it,” declared Manon Massé, Québec Solidaire MNA.
Throughout hearings last month, energy minister Pierre Arcand, maintained that the controversial bill was misunderstood.
Some have expressed concern that land could be used for drilling without consent, but the minister says no expropriation can be done without a government decree and permission of a judge.
Members of the National Assembly are expected to vote on whether to pass the bill in principle, in the upcoming weeks.
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