Benefit Plan Unchanged

Nova Scotia's offshore energy benefit requirements remain the same, Premier John Hamm told an industry breakfast today in Halifax.

"Contrary to what you may have read, we have not dropped any of the requirements for benefits plans," said the premier. "We have the authority to turn a project down. This is a responsibility we take seriously. We would not exercise it lightly. But no matter what, we have the final responsibility of deciding whether a project should proceed."

The Nova Scotia government released its energy strategy on Dec. 12, following extensive domestic and international consultation. One of the strategy's key objectives is to increase benefits for Nova Scotians through the existing regulatory regime and through offshore strategic energy agreements, which will outline how a project advances the province's objectives.