Shane Buchan, Progressive Conservative Party of NS candidateÂ
I’ve had many discussions about fracking with two geologists on my campaign team. If done properly, the dangers can be minimized, but proper regulations would certainly be needed and, most likely, be quite cost-prohibitive.
Overall, I’m not in favour of this method of extracting energy from the area. I’ve seen what fracking has done in Pennsylvania, it’s a scary wasteland. I’m much more in favour of looking at energy options offshore before opting for those onshore.
First and foremost, I’m here to represent the people of Kings South.
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Sheila G. Richardson, Green Party of NS candidate
The Green Party of Nova Scotia does not support onshore gas production by drilling or hydraulic fracturing or futher investment in off-shore oil and gas. We oppose the fluid waste from hydraulic fracturing in other provinces coming into Nova Scotia for treatment, storage or disposal.
Onshore gas production from unconventional fields like shale carries high risk, including significant impacts on groundwater.
In areas, such as Kennetcook, Hants County, we oppose fracking due to the possibility of radun and uranium being released. We believe that the safety of the community is at risk and would oppose such developments.
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Keith Irving, NS’s Liberal Party candidate
Voters from one end of Kings South to the other have made it known to me that they have deep concerns about fracking. I support the moratorium on fracking first called for by the Liberals and as set out in the Liberal Platform. I also oppose the importation of fracking waste from other jurisdictions which the NDP have allowed and I will continue to oppose the importation of fracking waste. The Liberal platform also calls for a ban on the importation of fracking waste. I also believe that any analysis of risks associated with fracking needs to be conducted independent of government, with the methodology of the research and the results made available to all Nova Scotians. I believe that the fracking discussion in Nova Scotia should not be driven by applications, but by comprehensive research on the risks and community consultation.
Ramona Jennex, New Democratic Party NS incumbent
The NDP will not allow hydraulic fracturing in Nova Scotia unless Nova Scotians know that it will not harm the environment. Cape Breton University president David Wheeler is leading an independent review of the social, economic, environmental and health impacts of hydraulic fracturing. The Wheeler review will look at all aspects of fracking, including storage and disposal of liquids; its conclusions will guide the development of public policy on fracking. No fracking is now underway in Nova Scotia.
Rodney MacDonald’s Conservative government allowed fracking in the Kennetcook area despite growing concerns. The Liberals have ignored serious public concerns by proposing that the province pick “green fracking†as a sector for economic development.
