FREDERICTON – New Brunswick Premier David Alward is brushing aside criticism that his government has not consulted enough with First Nations about shale gas.
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On Tuesday, the New Brunswick Anti-Shale Gas Alliance said last week’s violent clash between police and protesters in Rexton could have been avoided if the government had consulted.
But Alward says his government has met with First Nations more than any other government in the province’s history.
Energy Minister Craig Leonard has released a chronology of meetings that were held over the past year by the government and SWN Resources with First Nations on shale gas.
GALLERY: Anti-shale protest signs
Alward says his government remains committed to developing natural resources, including shale gas, but he says it’s still only at the exploration stage and more consultation and environmental studies would be required to proceed.
Alward says his government and officials from the Elsipogtog First Nation are discussing details before he meets again with Chief Aaron Sock about the ongoing protest near Rexton.
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