Younger NDP Needs to be Clear on Fracking

September 20, 2011

(Halifax, NS) Liberal environment critic Andrew Younger says the Dexter government must clarify its position on fracking after approving two recent exploratory wells in the province.

“This is the second time in a month that government has said an onshore exploration will not involve hydraulic fracturing but the company involved has specifically refused to rule it out,” says Younger. “Given the public concern surrounding fracking, the Dexter government must state clearly that they will agree to Liberal demands for a fracking moratorium.”

In the Lake Ainslie area, Younger says residents are upset at the lack of public consultation surrounding the renewal of PetroWorth’s lease.

“The government renewed PetroWorth’s lease without any public consultation,” says Younger. “Their operations could severely impact the people living in the surrounding areas and it is an insult to go forward without speaking to them. The NDP have even approved the use of massive amounts of municipal water for this project without talking first with citizens or the municipality.”

Younger says that the government has a responsibility to the people of Nova Scotia who will be most impacted by this work - work that attracts no royalties for the province and where the economic benefits leave Nova Scotia.

“Instead of engaging the community, the government ignored them,” says Younger. “Now we hear different plans from different parties - Nova Scotians deserve clarity.”