Premier Susan Holt’s administration presented a broad plan for the upcoming session of the New Brunswick legislature, addressing concerns in the Tantramar region regarding a proposed natural gas power facility. Prior to the throne speech, Holt engaged with approximately 60 demonstrators urging her to halt N.B. Power’s plant construction initiative.
Acknowledging the protesters’ uncertainties about the project, Holt informed them of ongoing assessments and inquiries into the proposal’s details and locations. She refrained from making firm commitments, particularly regarding the potential for a comprehensive environmental impact evaluation, which opponents advocate for.
N.B. Power is seeking authorization to establish a 500-megawatt, 10-turbine natural gas plant to support the expansion of renewable energy sources with an overall decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. Despite the utility’s assertions, opponents remain skeptical, citing concerns such as misrepresented Indigenous investment involvement and environmental impacts.
Holt commended the protesters for engaging in the democratic process, although some expressed disappointment with her remarks. Joel Miller, a Tantramar native, voiced skepticism about the government’s stance, fearing the gas plant’s eventual construction.
During the throne speech delivered by Lt.-Gov. Louise Imbeault, the focus was predominantly on existing government initiatives and ongoing projects, with a call for bold action and collaboration to achieve set objectives. Specific commitments included streamlining administrative processes for child-care operators, a delayed property tax system overhaul, and the introduction of a “New Brunswick Free Trade Within Canada Act.”
Opposition leaders criticized the lack of fresh proposals in the speech, branding it as a deferral of substantial changes. Holt hinted at impending tough decisions to address a projected budget deficit of $668.7 million, slated for discussion in the upcoming budget speech in March.
In response to criticisms from Green Leader David Coon, Holt’s handling of the gas plant protesters was characterized as an attempt to placate opponents without definitive commitments, viewed by some as a strategic conflict management approach.