Province to Invite Comment on Hydraulic Fracturing, Op-ed

NOTE: The following is an op-ed piece from Energy Minister Andrew Younger.

Nova Scotians have heard a lot of information about hydraulic fracturing. Here in Nova Scotia, you will soon be invited to have your say about this process.

I understand people are concerned about their drinking water, their environment, their land and their families. As a parent of a young child, these are concerns for me, too. I have spoken often of the need for a fully independent review of hydraulic fracturing. I believed then, as I do now, that such a review has to be truly independent and open to information, and evidence, from all sides of the debate. An independently led review, including public consultation, is the only way for the province to make the appropriate decisions about hydraulic fracturing, and the only way for Nova Scotians to have faith that all views are considered and studied.

No hydraulic fracturing activity is taking place anywhere in Nova Scotia. None will be approved while the review moves forward. While we may have potential to harness shale oil and gas development in our province, we must completely understand what is involved, and ensure the safety, the health of Nova Scotians, and the protection of our environment is a top-most concern.

The review is being led by David Wheeler, president of Cape Breton University. After he has chosen an expert panel, including experts in the areas of science, health and aboriginal knowledge, Mr. Wheeler will conduct public consultations on the environmental, socio-economic and health impacts of hydraulic fracturing in Nova Scotia. I have met with him and stressed that I want the review to remain truly independent and all views must be considered. I also assured Mr. Wheeler that I will pass along any research sent to the Department of Energy on this issue.

Through letters and phone calls, Nova Scotians have indicated to me and the government that they would like to learn more about Mr. Wheeler's independent review. I encourage people to visit Cape Breton University's website, www.cbu.ca/hfstudy, for more information. This will give everyone a broad understanding of the mandate we have in place for the hydraulic fracturing study.

Until the independent review is complete, the province will not consider any application for hydraulic fracturing.