MONCTON – A new alliance has formed in New Brunswick to try to promote shale gas development in the province.
The New Brunswick Responsible Energy Development Alliance launched their website nbnaturalgas.ca Friday.
Right now there’s a moratorium on the practice in the province, but the alliance has formed to try to change minds about the environmental and economic benefits of the practice.
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“The business community in New Brunswick is coming together now to respond to the public’s need for more information,” said Joel Richardson, V.P. for New Brunswick and PEI, Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters.
The group members include Corridor Resources, which has led the push for shale gas exploration in the province. Other members include the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) and the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters.
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Richardson said the website is meant to provide important fact-based information about the practice.
“We really believe if we fully explore the potential of natural gas, we have the opportunity to help turn our province around,” he said. “And create significant new jobs in New Brunswick, which will help stimulate the economy.”
But Roy Ries, with the New Brunswick Anti-Shale Gas Alliance isn’t so sure. He browsed through the website and says he has concerns.
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“They’re saying that there is scientific evidence that it can be done safely,” he said. “The scientists say that’s just not true.”
The Gallant government appointed a three-person commission to study the issue for a year, back in March.
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The government has said shale gas won’t move forward in the province, unless the commission is satisfied that certain conditions have been met, including coming up with a plan for the waste water and consulting with First Nations.
Richardson said the alliance launched its initiative now because the industry feels it’s the right time to put out information showing the benefits to the economy.
“We really want to explore the potential to benefit our local communities and potentially create jobs,” he said.
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