Fracking continues to be a contentious issue in the New Brunswick legislature.
Moncton South Liberal MLA Cathy Rogers says if regions like Sussex go ahead with shale gas development, it could have an impact on the Turtle Creek watershed, “Why is this government willing to put the drinking water of over 115, 000 people at risk by allowing fracking near Turtle Creek?”
Energy and Resource Development Minister Mike Holland says there are no plans in that area for development, “We are not going to bully over any area. Nothing could be further from the truth. As the member for Albert as well, there will be nothing that compromises the environmental integrity of the area around my riding.”
Rogers asked for a commitment from the Premier, “That no fracking will be permitted anywhere near the Turtle Creek watershed unless the citizens of that area and the councils are consulted and in agreement.”
Holland reiterated his government’s position, “We have been very clear that regions, whether it be Kent County or Carleton County, if you are not interested in this, it will not be imposed. We are not ignoring the environmental impact, and in an open and transparent way, stakeholders with all sides of this equation will be brought to the table so that a responsible plan will be developed “
Liberal Opposition Leader Brian Gallant introduced an amendment to the oil and natural gas act to ensure the moratorium cannot be lifted without a vote of the House.
The motion passed first reading.