If you follow local politics, you know the debate over shale gas development is heating up again. Chiefs representing Wolastoqey communities in New Brunswick oppose lifting the 12 year moratorium on shale gas development. They want better consultation from the provincial government. According to a recent report from CBC News, the Wolastoqey Nation believes the government fails to follow through on its commitment to meaningfully consult First Nations during the current five month review.

Prioritizing Timelines Over Involvement

Chief Ross Perley of Neqotkuk states the province focuses on timelines rather than thoughtful consideration and genuine Wolastoqey involvement. Perley notes Premier Susan Holt and provincial ministers met with Wolastoqey chiefs once in the summer but have not consulted at the community level. The community lacks information about the review and the future economic benefits of lifting the ban.

‘These are things our people need to make informed decisions and right now we don’t have that,’ Perley said.

Waiting for a Consultation Plan

The provincial government maintains its commitment to consulting Indigenous communities. Premier Holt says the province asked Wolastoqey communities to create and present a consultation plan. The government provided funding for these efforts but has not received a plan or timeline from the Wolastoqey Nation.

‘It’s very important to us that we do those community consultations and that engagement, and that it be Indigenous led,’ Holt said.

Holt attributes the concerns to misunderstandings and plans to meet with the chiefs on Monday to check in face to face.

Public Engagement and Next Steps

While the Wolastoqey Nation holds back, the group representing nine Mi’kmaq First Nations sent a consultation plan to the government and will move ahead. This group also received funding, and their plan includes public consultations. Meanwhile, the province holds public engagement sessions elsewhere. A recent meeting in Sussex saw residents press Natural Resources Minister John Heron on the health and environmental risks of fracking.

Perley views these ongoing public sessions as a sign the project is moving too quickly, leaving First Nations voices unheard. However, he states the community changes its stance if the government follows the right process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of fracking in New Brunswick?

New Brunswick currently has a 12 year moratorium on shale gas development. The provincial government launched a five month review in August to reconsider this ban.

Why do Wolastoqey chiefs oppose lifting the ban?

The chiefs feel the provincial government prioritizes timelines over genuine consultation. They state their communities lack the necessary information to make informed decisions about the future impacts and benefits of shale gas development.

How is the provincial government responding to these concerns?

Premier Susan Holt says the province provided funding and is waiting for the Wolastoqey Nation to submit an Indigenous led consultation plan. The government holds regular meetings with the chiefs to manage the relationship and address misunderstandings.