MCNEIL: LEADERSHIP AND INFRASTRUCTURE KEY TO NOVA SCOTIA’S ENERGY FUTUREDate: Friday May 8, 2009
Stephen McNeil, MLA
Liberal Leader
(Halifax, NS) Liberal leader Stephen McNeil laid out his vision for Nova Scotia’s energy future this morning at a campaign stop at MaManna Renewable Energy in Dartmouth.
“Our renewable energy options are plentiful, from Fundy Tidal projects to the many wind projects across the province,” said McNeil. “However, in order for Nova Scotia to grow and prosper and compete, we need to have the infrastructure in place to ensure that this energy is able reach customers.”
“That’s why a Liberal government will work to create an energy corridor in Nova Scotia to position us strongly for the future.”
An energy corridor would consist of additional transmission infrastructure, with strengthened ties between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. McNeil has lobbied for an underwater cable between Newfoundland and Cape Breton to take advantage of hydro energy from the Lower Churchill Falls project.
The Liberal leader says when it comes to energy, he’s looking beyond today and tomorrow as leaders in our neighboring provinces are. If we don’t act, he says, Nova Scotia will fall behind.
“This is about building for 20, 30 and 40 years in the future,” explained McNeil. “Renewable energy represents the future of the Atlantic region – Nova Scotia included. We have to plan outside of the next provincial government mandate.”
McNeil sees regional cooperation in energy transmission and security as a crucial aspect in moving not just Nova Scotia, but the whole of Atlantic Canada forward. In February, McNeil met with Danny Williams, Shawn Graham and Robert Ghiz to explore that shared vision.
“Unlike Rodney MacDonald, I am not going to allow an opportunity to positively shape Nova Scotia’s future slip away,” charges McNeil. “Clean, renewable energy has the potential to dramatically impact this province’s economy and our environment. A Liberal government will make sure we are not left behind.”
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For further information, contact
Glennie Langille
(902) 471-5995
glennie@liberal.ns.ca
