N.B. premier vows to press ahead with shale gas despite protests
by The Canadian Press
David Alward said cost of not moving forward is too great, government will push ahead with sector
FREDERICTON—The premier of New Brunswick is urging the public to support the development of a shale gas sector in his final state of the province address before the election.
David Alward said his government will push ahead to help create a shale gas sector, adding that the cost of not moving forward is too great.
Alward says SWN Resources and Corridor Resources have plans this year to drill exploratory wells that will help generate much-needed jobs and revenue.
His position flies in the face of public protests, including one that turned violent in Rexton, N.B., in October, when 40 people were arrested and six police cars set on fire.
Alward also said a new provincial forestry plan will be released in the coming days.
The provincial election is scheduled for Sept. 22, 2014.
