The Conservation Council of New Brunswick is disappointed by the recent decision by the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board opening the door to offshore drilling in the Gulf of St Lawrence.
While not approving any specific project, this decision moves us closer to seeing off shore drilling in the gulf. Given the unique ecological characteristics of the Gulf any spill would have serious consequences with potential to foul the shores of five provinces. The Gulf is a vibrant, dynamic ecosystem home to many species at risk, including the Right whale, Blue whale, leatherback turtle, piping plover and harlequin duck, while other species, like the Atlantic salmon, cod, fin whale, and humpback whale are in trouble. We join with other members of the St Lawrence Coalition and others calling for a moratorium on oil exploration in the gulf.
Even without a spill, the ecological risks to the Gulf from oil exploration would be significant. Seismic activities used to search for oil can have negative impacts on the many species that rely on the Gulf year round. As it is not appropriate to drill in the Gulf, exploration activities should not be allowed either.
For more information see Save Our Sea and Shores and the St. Lawrence Coalition