Mi’kmaq Chiefs Say Work Should Not be Moving Ahead on Alton Gas

Press Release

Earlier today, the Alton Gas Storage project, owned by AltaGas, announced its $100M project is underway.

The Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq Chiefs are concerned by the work being done and are taken back that work has begun with minimal Consultation with the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia.

Under the Terms of Reference for a Mi’kmaq-Nova Scotia-Canada Consultation Process, it clearly lays out the importance of Consultation on any projects that impact Mi’kmaq Rights and Title. Consultation with the Province on this file has been limited and inadequate.

“We are concerned about the impacts to fish and fish habitat in the area,” said Chief Paul Prosper, Lead Chief of the Energy Portfolio for the Assembly. “The Mi’kmaq continue to fish in the Shubenacadie River and this project will connect directly with these waters.”

The Assembly worries that the impacts on water quality and fish could be significant and is frustrated that the Department of Fisheries and Oceans has not consulted with the Mi’kmaq. Permits from the Department of Natural Resources, Department of Agriculture and Nova Scotia Environment should also be required before any development starts.

“Construction should not be taking place without all the permits in place, without due regard for the environment and without the Province ensuring adequate consultation with the Mi’kmaq,” continued Chief Prosper. “Clearly people are opposed to this project.” The Assembly affirms that meaningful consultation with the Mi’kmaq must happen before this project goes any further. It is inexcusable that work has begun without all the necessary permitting in place. Proponents must become more active when doing work in Nova Scotia and engage the Mi’kmaq early in the process.

The Kwilmu’kw Maw- klusuaqn Negotiation Office/Mi’kmaq Rights Initiative works on behalf of the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq Chiefs in the negotiations and consultations between the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia, the Province of Nova Scotia and the Government of Canada. The purpose of these negotiations and consultations is to implement our Aboriginal and Treaty Rights from the Treaties signed by our ancestors in the 1700’s. For further information visit our website at www.mikmaqrights.com.

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For more information contact:
Crystal Dorey
Communications Officer
Mi’kmaq Rights Initiative
Phone: (902) 843-3880 Cell: (902) 957-0549
E-mail: crystaldorey@mikmaqrights.com

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