Nova Scotia Wins With Decision

Today's National Energy Board decision is great news for jobs, investment and growth in Nova Scotia, said Premier John Hamm.

The board released a decision today rejecting New Brunswick's application for restrictive regulatory measures on natural gas exports.

"Nova Scotia, and all Atlantic Canada, need open markets for our energy sector to attract more investment, continue to grow and create jobs," said Premier Hamm. "Today's decision confirms that the right approach for Atlantic Canada is to let the free markets work, instead of imposing costly, bureaucratic red tape."

The premier noted that the private sector has committed over $1.5 billion in exploration work in Nova Scotia's offshore, with nearly half the amount coming since 1999.

Natural gas exports have also generated sustained economic growth in the province. Last year, Nova Scotia had the second-highest rate of economic growth in Canada, next to only Alberta. This spring, the province hit a 25-year high in employment numbers. Since July 1999, over 20,000 new jobs have been created in Nova Scotia.

"Last year, after extensive consultation with Nova Scotians and industry experts, our government released Seizing the Opportunity, our province's comprehensive energy strategy," said the premier. "With the National Energy Board confirming free and open markets, we can continue to use our strategy to maximize jobs and benefits for the people of Nova Scotia."

Nova Scotia will continue to work with other Atlantic provinces on co-operation efforts already underway. In the last year, Atlantic energy ministers have launched a forum for co-operation, while the New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers will continue to promote regulatory synchronization and harmonization.