Younger: NDP Government Caught Unaware Of Huge Hit To Economy

July 9, 2010

(Halifax, NS) Liberal energy critic Andrew Younger says the energy department needs to immediately release its plans for next steps for the Sable Gas Field.

Yesterday, the partners in the project, including ExxonMobil and Royal Dutch Shell, revealed they would not be spending any more money to extend the project’s life.

"The review of the project had been underway for two years and government was fully aware of the factors that led to the decision," said Younger. "It seems the government was caught flat footed by the decision. What steps has this NDP government taken to find other interested parties?"

Although revenue from offshore royalties has been declining, the NDP government has not stopped growth in program spending or delivered a plan to accommodate declining revenues.

"This decision by the partners in the project has a profound impact on the economy of the entire province and the services upon which we all depend," said Younger. "Nova Scotians need action now."

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