Premier says fracking ban to remain

Despite an analysis that highlights the potential for billions of dollars worth of onshore gas in Nova Scotia, Premier Stephen McNeil says his government has no intention of lifting its ban on hydraulic fracturing.

The Nova Scotia Onshore Petroleum Atlas lists the economic potential at between US$20-billion and US$60-billion.

The analysis, which began in 2013 and was recently released by the Energy Department, says that based on available geological data, the Windsor and Cumberland sub-basins are the areas that hold the most potential for hydrocarbons.

But McNeil said Thursday that it’s simply one report that will give Nova Scotians a chance to discuss fracking and onshore gas exploration. The Liberals passed legislation banning fracking in 2014, but have not proclaimed it.

“At this time there is no discussion to lift that ban,’’ he said. “The information that has come out I’m sure will lead to great public discussion.’’

McNeil said barring any new information, the government remains concerned about the potential impacts fracking could have on potable water tables given the province’s geology.

Most of the potential, about US$40 billion, exists in shale gas which would require hydraulic fracturing to extract it.