Public pushes back against government bill that would lift N.S. ban on uranium mining, fracking
The decision to ban fracking in Nova Scotia was a topic of discussion among MLAs on Monday, with several presenters emphasizing the importance of robust public consultation before considering lifting the ban. The proposed omnibus legislation Bill 6, which includes plans to lift the ban on uranium exploration and mining as well as the moratorium on fracking for onshore gas, has raised concerns among various stakeholders.
Premier Tim Houston has been vocal about his belief that blanket bans on resource development are a result of lazy government policy influenced by undisclosed special interest groups. However, presenters at the committee meeting challenged this assertion, particularly in relation to fracking. Barbara Harris from the Nova Scotia Fracking Resource and Action Coalition highlighted the extensive scientific review, public consultation, and public support that led to the moratorium on fracking by a former Liberal government. She emphasized that the legislation in question was a product of careful consideration, not lazy policymaking.
Former Cape Breton University president David Wheeler, who led the review on fracking, expressed his belief that revisiting shale gas exploration and development in Nova Scotia is “pretty well unthinkable” in the current climate of heightened awareness about climate change. He noted that while the case for fracking could be made based on manageable risks, the global perspective on climate change has shifted significantly in the past decade.
Tina Northrup, a lawyer with East Coast Environmental Law, criticized the divisive rhetoric used by Premier Houston in advocating for increased natural resource extraction while also calling for unity in the face of external threats. She emphasized the need for thorough public consultation, independent expert review, and consultation with First Nations before considering lifting the bans on fracking and uranium exploration.
Badia Nehme from the Ecology Action Centre echoed these sentiments, calling for the moratoriums to remain in place until proper consultation and analysis have been conducted. She highlighted the concerns raised by the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs and emphasized the importance of respecting the health and environmental impact of these decisions on Nova Scotians.
Ken Summers, a resident who witnessed the aftermath of fracking operations in Noel, N.S., raised concerns about the province’s lack of preparedness in dealing with fracking waste. He emphasized the need for comprehensive planning and regulation to address the environmental challenges associated with fracking.
While some presenters spoke in favor of lifting the ban on uranium exploration and mining, citing advancements in the industry and improved safety measures, others stressed the importance of considering the potential risks and engaging in transparent consultation processes.
The committee will continue to hear witness testimony on Tuesday as stakeholders continue to voice their perspectives on the proposed legislation. It is evident that the decision to lift the bans on fracking and uranium exploration in Nova Scotia requires careful consideration and thorough consultation to ensure the protection of public health and the environment.
