If you live in New Brunswick, you know energy policy directly impacts your community and your wallet. Twelve years ago, former Premier Brian Gallant placed a moratorium on hydraulic fracturing in the province. Today, Premier Susan Holt is reviewing that decision. The provincial government will wrap up this review by January 2027. As the government reconsiders the ban, both sides of the debate are standing firm. According to a recent report from CBC News, proponents and opponents state the last decade of evidence only proves their original points.

Residents Push Back on Health Risks

Phyllis Sutherland opposed fracking in 2014 and says she knows more now about the potential risks. Image Credit: Pierre Fournier CBC

Many residents feel frustrated they have to fight this battle again. Phyllis Sutherland is a retired teacher and campground operator in Hillsborough. She lives near one of the province’s major natural gas reserves. Sutherland says the last decade of research confirms her belief that fracking harms human health and the environment.

“The big difference is we know so much more,” Sutherland told CBC News. “We thought we were safe, and now it’s come around again.”

Barb Gebuhr, a retired principal, agrees. She actively opposed fracking before the moratorium and remains firmly against it today. She states the economic gains fail to cover the resulting healthcare costs.

The Economic Case for Shale Gas

Economic development consultant David Campbell says the growth of fracking in British Columbia shows the industry’s potential. Image Credit: CBC

On the other side of the debate, economic development consultant David Campbell sees a missed opportunity. He points to the growth of the fracking industry in British Columbia. Campbell argues the risks are measurable and the tax and royalty payoffs are substantial.

New Brunswick relies heavily on natural gas to heat homes and power industries. However, the province imports all of it. Campbell calls this reliance hypocritical. He notes we gladly use the resource while letting other regions handle the environmental risks.

Campbell wants the provincial government to explore local shale gas resources. He states communities bearing the risk deserve a localized debate about the commercial feasibility.

A Rich History Meets Modern Concerns

New Brunswick holds significant shale gas reserves in the McCully and Elgin areas, as well as the Stoney Creek and Hillsborough regions. This area has a deep connection to fossil fuels. Janet Clouston manages the Albert County Museum. She notes the region is an early site for oil and gas development. In the 1800s, geologist Abraham Gesner produced the world’s first kerosene from local albertite.

Despite this history, modern residents prioritize their current quality of life. Derek Lackey serves on the Fundy Albert municipal council. He heads the local economic development committee. Lackey acknowledges the significant dollars involved but states residents will reject fracking proposals.

Water capacity remains a primary concern for these communities. Lackey says towns like Hillsborough and Riverside Albert already face water system issues. He wants to see concrete proposals rather than a blanket moratorium, but he insists any development must fit the community’s identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of fracking in New Brunswick?

New Brunswick currently has a moratorium on hydraulic fracturing. The provincial government is reviewing this ban and will make a final decision by January 2027.

Why are people opposed to fracking in the province?

Opponents cite severe risks to human health and the environment. Local residents also worry about the impact on municipal water supplies and the financial burden on the healthcare system.

What are the arguments in favor of lifting the moratorium?

Proponents argue that fracking creates significant economic benefits through taxes and royalties. They also point out that New Brunswick already uses large amounts of imported natural gas and achieves energy independence by developing its own resources.