Forum to Showcase Province's Energy Sector

The spotlight will be on Nova Scotia's energy sector as experts from Canada and around the world gather at St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish on Wednesday, May 24, and Thursday, May 25, for Energy Research and Development Forum 2006.

Leading experts and speakers from industry, government and the academic community will gather at the forum to discuss research and development in Nova Scotia and trends in the energy sector.

"This truly is a promising time for energy research and development in Nova Scotia," said Energy Minister Bill Dooks. "The energy forum illustrates the province's commitment to creating partnerships that will strengthen and sustain our energy sector."

Arnfinn Skadsheim, senior scientist with the International Research Institute of Stavenger (Norway), will be among the keynote speakers. Mr. Skadsheim will provide an international perspective on developments and trends in the energy industry.

Gabor Tari, vice-president of Geosciences with Vanco Energy Company of Houston, Texas, has also been invited as a keynote speaker. Mr. Tari will speak about deepwater exploration in Morocco.

"Many of the environmental issues and concerns over the potential impacts of offshore oil and gas exploration and production activities are shared by Nova Scotia and other countries," said Kenneth Lee of Fisheries and Oceans Canada. "Sharing knowledge and expertise across borders will allow us to optimize the use of our research funds and make certain we are aware of the best ways to protect our marine environment."

The forum is presented by the Nova Scotia Department of Energy, and supported by Petroleum Research Atlantic Canada, Dalhousie and St. Francis Xavier universities. For more details on the forum program and to register see the website at www.energyresearch.ca .