Energy to take centre stage at meeting of provincial and territorial leaders (Premiers-Meeting) – CP

Source: The Canadian Press
Jul 16, 2015 11:27

ST. JOHN’S, N.L. _ The premier of Newfoundland and Labrador says it’s more important to get a national energy strategy right than to get it done quickly.

Paul Davis said at Thursday’s meeting of the Council of the Federation in St. John’s, N.L., that talks towards a Canadian Energy Strategy are continuing, and a draft document is still in flux.

Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall launched a vigorous defence of the energy industry prior to the meeting, saying he is growing concerned that oil and gas development is increasingly being viewed as a liability by the rest of the country.

He said there’s a growing sense of frustration in the West, where the energy industry creates jobs and funds programs such as equalization, which transfers money from the federal government to less-wealthy provinces.

All premiers are free to express their opinions, Davis said when asked if Wall’s outspokenness was stalling progress.

Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil called Wall a “great partner” and said it’s important for all provinces to take a national view on how to best move resources across Canada.

New Brunswick Premier Brian Gallant said he’s optimistic the premiers can agree on a national energy strategy that will offer guidelines for new projects while also protecting the environment.

“Energy’s an important part of our Canadian economy, it’s an important part of the New Brunswick economy and we need it to be helping us, we need it to be growing if we’re going to create jobs and grow the economy from coast to coast to coast.”

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