Concern over testing, not drilling
Valcourt alleges misunderstanding – community will be heard, says Aglukkaq
Walter Strong
Northern News Services
Published Monday, July 14, 2014
KANGIQTUGAAPIK/CLYDE RIVER
The federal department of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada has responded to what it describes as inaccuracies in media reporting surrounding the National Energy Board's recent approval of a joint venture five-year 2-D seismic survey program.
Petroleum Geo-Services could begin its 2-D offshore seismic survey program in Baffin Bay and Davis Strait as early as this summer. The Ramford Atlas, pictured here, is one of the company's 14 offshore seismic vessels. - photo courtesy of Petroleum Geo-Services |
"Due to recent misinformation in the media I believe it is important to remind Northerners of the facts in order to ensure they have the correct information," stated Aboriginal Affairs Minister Bernard Valcourt in a written statement.
One of Valcourt's concerns surrounded the potential misunderstanding that the approved testing includes exploratory oil drilling.
"The NEB decision is related to seismic testing only," said Valcourt. "It does not allow for offshore drilling or any other type of resource extraction."
Despite National Energy Board assurances that the project is not likely to result in significant adverse environmental effects, community response to energy board approval has not been quiet.
Clyde River Mayor Jerry Natanine has categorically rejected the proposed project, saying his community feels ignored by the energy board process.
"We feel totally helpless," Natanine said regarding the energy board's approval.
Natanine told Nunavut News/North last week that he understood seismic testing does not involve drilling for oil. Natanine's concern surrounds the long-view that the seismic testing now is preparation for oil and gas drilling later. Seismic survey data collected will, according to the terms and conditions of board project approval, be eventually shared with the federal government.
Petroleum Geo-Services, one of the project applicants, provides world-wide oil and gas exploration services. The company did not return a request for comment on this project, or whether or not the project was funded by a specific client.
Environment Minister Leona Aglukkaq responded to request for comment from Nunavut News/North on the energy board's decision and subsequent community reaction.
"I will continue to work with my colleagues to ensure that the concerns raised by my constituents are being heard in Ottawa," Aglukkaq wrote in an e-mailed statement.
"Our government is committed to encouraging economic growth through responsible resource development while safeguarding the environment."
