MONTREAL, Dec. 17, 2014 /CNW/ - The Federation of Chambers
of Commerce of Quebec (FCCQ), the
Quebec Employers Council (CPQ), the Quebec Oil and Gas Association
(APGQ), the Quebec Manufacturers & Exporters (QME) and the
Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) are asking the
Quebec government to keep the door
open on shale gas exploitation. The group believes the government
should complete its strategic analysis with a robust review of
economic outcomes and benefits, in the context of the need to
create wealth and economic growth and going beyond a simple
cost/benefit analysis from an organization whose mission is to
assess environmental impacts. For the group, the BAPE doesn't have
the expertise to decide on these issues.
Before making a final decision, the government must be aware of
the full potential of the industrial development that would be
created with local production, including the associated economic
benefits and also the risks tied to a lack of diversification of
energy sources. Quebec is at odds
with most jurisdictions on this particular strategic issue. Energy
can't be treated as other industries; it must be measured in terms
of economic stability as well as energy supply security.
The statement made yesterday by the Prime Minister is premature,
as it is closing the door on an important development opportunity.
It comes at a time when the government is seeking new revenues to
avoid having to cut more deeply in its spending. No economy has the
means to close the door so rapidly and definitely on an industry
whose development, although preliminary, is so fundamental for the
future, especially for Quebec.
This is even more true when we recognize that Quebec has, for decades, repeatedly
demonstrated its ability to exploit its natural resources
responsibly for the benefit of the whole population.
Moreover, the above associations recognize that the debate
surrounding the issue had a false start. They are asking the
government to include in its future energy policy the principles
that should guide companies who are seeking social acceptability
over projects. Promoters should be able to work within a clear and
predictable framework when working with the public and their
partners in minimizing risks to the environment.
The Quebec Oil and Gas Association, Oil and Gas Services
Association of Quebec and likewise
the above associations have all participated in the BAPE and ÉES
processes. They have collaborated in good faith whenever they were
asked for. We now expect the same openness from the Quebec Prime Minister.
Signatories
Eric
Tetrault, President, Quebec Manufacturers &
Exporters
Françoise Bertrand, OC, CQ, CEO, Federation of Chambers of Commerce
of Quebec
Yves-Thomas Dorval, CEO, Quebec
Employers Council
Martine Hébert, Senior VP and national spokesperson, Canadian
Federation of Independent Business
Michael Binnion, President, Quebec
Oil and Gas Association
SOURCE Quebec Manufacturers & Exporters