LePage wants to re-establish child labour? Is there no end to this guy's darkness?
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Showing posts with label Politics. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Politics. Show all posts
Thursday, April 21, 2011
NUCLEAR: Harper makes no mention of Lepreau on N.B. visit
Image via WikipediaCBC News Posted: Apr 21, 2011 8:28 AM AT
Last Updated: Apr 21, 2011 8:28 AM AT
N.B. Premier David Alward said Stephen Harper privately promised him that if re-elected, he would talk about compensating the province for delays at Point Lepreau. (CBC)
Stephen Harper and Michael Ignatieff both campaigned in New Brunswick on Wednesday, but only Ignatieff was talking about compensation for refurbishment delays at the Point Lepreau generating station.
Atlantic Canada's only nuclear reactor was supposed to be back generating power by September 2009 after the $1.4-billion refurbishment project was completed. The project is now $1 billion over budget according to N.B. Power officials, who hope the plant will be generating power by the fall of 2012.
Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff said he supports nuclear power and on Wednesday he repeated his promise that if he wins the election, he will negotiate some kind of settlement for the Lepreau delays by Atomic Energy of Canada.
"The government of Canada has responsibilities in respect of AECL and we have to shoulder our responsibilities," said Ignatieff.
Harper quiet on Lepreau
During his visits to Fredericton and Edmundston, Conservative leader Stephen Harper talked about government funding for a new Fredericton YMCA and the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, but made no public mention of Point Lepreau.
'You know you just can't, carte blanche, snap your fingers and say 'we're going to do this' before you know what the hell you're doing.'—Keith Ashfield, Conservative candidate
However Premier David Alward said Harper told him in a private conversation on his campaign bus that he is prepared to look at a full costing of the delays and talk about the issue.
"We are looking to be able to provide him with that information," said Alward. "He realizes that and he is open to discussing, and we will be getting that information to him."
Conservative candidate Keith Ashfield said voters shouldn't expect his leader to make any promises about Point Lepreau during the election campaign.
"You know you just can't, carte blanche, snap your fingers and say `wer'e going to do this' before you know what the hell you're doing," said Ashfield. "So we have to have all the information, and we'll see what happens after the process has taken place."
Alward said in his view, Harper's private promise matches Ignatieff's public commitment to do the same.
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NUCLEAR: NB: Liberals support nuclear power: Ignatieff
Image via WikipediaNB: Nuclear power will provide energy baseload, but more renewable needed: IgnatieffPublished on April 21, 2011Staff ~ The Canadian Press 
[SAINT JOHN, NB] - Michael Ignatieff says he supports nuclear power, but a Liberal government would do more to harness renewable energy, including New Brunswick tides.
Speaking in Saint John, N.B., Ignatieff was asked about nuclear power as a protester wearing a white, papier-mache elephant head stood behind him.
The protester wore a sign reading, “Pointless Lepreau,” referring to Point Lepreau, Atlantic Canada's only nuclear power plant, where a refurbishment project is three years behind schedule and $1 billion over budget.
Ignatieff says the crisis in Japan has people waking up to the risks of nuclear power, but he adds that it has helped keep the lights on safely in Canada for 50 years.
He says he would like to see it continue to provide some of the baseload of energy generation, but with a greater focus on renewables such as solar, wind and tidal power.
Ignatieff says he would also talk with premiers about improved interprovincial energy-sharing.
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Wednesday, April 20, 2011
ENVIRONMENT: Conservatives Flunk the Environmental Report Card
Just in from Sierra Club Canada:
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Sierra Club Canada releases its 2011 Federal Election Environmental Report Card
OTTAWA - In response to an overwhelming demand from members and supporters, Sierra Club Canada is today releasing its 2011 Election Report Card.
The five major parties are awarded grades based on their platforms, statements and actions.
The final grades are as follows:
Green Party: A
NDP: C+
Bloc: C
Liberals: C-
Conservatives: F
NDP: C+
Bloc: C
Liberals: C-
Conservatives: F
"Using and online survey tool, we asked our members what action we should take in the election," said John Bennett, Executive Director of Sierra Club Canada. "Over 1000 people responded in less than 48 hours - a strong majority of them requesting we provide information based on fair and accurate comparisons of the environmental positions of the parties."
The first draft of the Report Card was emailed to 12,000 supporters on Sunday, April 17 for their review and input.
"The feedback we received helped make the report card a much stronger document," said Bennett. "We have never seen such interest from our supporters. They are clearly disappointed the environment is not being discussed in this election."
The Election report Card was produced by experts, volunteers and staff from across Canada. The information provided by the parties was fairly compiled, scrutinized and judged against what needs to be done to protect Canada's natural environment.
The report card was not intended to be a comprehensive review of all the environmental issues of concern to Sierra Club Canada, but based on environmental policies touched on by the parties in this election.
"The report card was truly a cooperative, participatory effort from beginning to end. I want to thank everyone involved," said Mr. Bennett. "We look forward to the next opportunity to engage our grassroots supporters. They are a wealth of knowledge and an inspiration to us."
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Wednesday, April 13, 2011
POLITICS: Straight Answer from NDP on Nucs and LNG. No answers from Greens, Libs, and Cons
QUESTION 2
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Friday, April 8, 2011
POLITICS: The farce IS with us!!
This just in from one of my favo/urite US Departments. Really shutting down or even pretending to, is not good for your international image folks. Time to get it together and back the President YOU elected at least until YOU vote him out. These potpourri budgets make no sense. Argue the contentious issues separate from the OPERATIONAL issues. Please!!! WE are walking the edge of too many cliffs!
Art
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Dear friends of the Earth Observatory, As you may know, the U.S. government is facing a shutdown due to the end of funding. As a result, the Earth Observatory site will not be updated for the duration of that shutdown (and may not be available at all) which may begin tomorrow, Saturday April 9. We hope that there will be a quick resolution to this crisis and we thank you for your continued patronage. Kevin Kevin Ward Team Leader NASA's Earth Observatory Sigma Space Corporation
Image by Chris Pirillo via Flickr
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Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Gulf Oil Spill Unlikely to Directly Impact the Bay of Fundy ...BUT ...
If it wasn't so sad, it would be laughable. New Brunswick's Minister of Fisheries, Rick Doucet is rushing off to The Gulf of Mexico to add his inestimable talent to that disaster and is, according to the local papers, taking the lead on a "summit" that the Gulf of Maine Council has had underway for a long time now anyway ... sounds like a pre-election move and photo-op to me.
Unfortunately, the forces that are currently at work are huge and way beyond the talents of our farcical politicians and their driven by "profit" friends and, perhaps, beyond the scope of common sense and our collective ability to stop the insane destruction of our tiny blue planet..
So let's take it one point at a time.
Ocean oil drilling is going on around the world and is being opened up more and more in the offshore, Arctic and other sensitive areas. Driven by our greed, we are destabilizing our world at an alarming rate and setting in play forces that we do not totally understand ... all in the name of "profit" and under the excuse of feeding our "essential" energy needs. The Gulf oil spill is only one example of our continuing rape of our precious finite Eden as we rapidly turn it into a potential Hell.
Did you know that there have been over 50, 000 bore holes and wells poked into the ocean bottom in the Gulf of Mexico? And there has been ongoing leakage through the years?
But the current accident is truly enormous and spectacular with experts estimating losses of 35,000 to 60,000 barrels per day ... at the upper limit, that’s 2.5 million gallons of oil per day (Politico.com)
So, it's well established that massive quantities of oil are entering the marine system. But is this oil likely to flow north to the Bay of Fundy?
Circulation in the North Atlantic is dominated by the Gulf Stream, a surface current that brings warm waters of the Caribbean northeastward to bathe the coast of Europe. Because of this, Western Europe is much warmer than other parts of the world at the same latitude.
Atlantic circulation is driven by cold saline arctic waters. These spill off the floor of the shallow Arctic Ocean into the basin of the deep Atlantic, sinking rapidly and creating "suction" at the surface.
When they do this, warm surface waters from farther south rush northward to fill the space left by the cold arctic waters. By this means, the warm tropical Gulf Stream is pulled north (University of Maryland).
Although the Gulf Stream moves back and forth somewhat as it flows to Europe and it does influence the climate at the southern tip of Nova Scotia, it does not flow into the Bay of Fundy and, as DFO scientists have recently indicated, there should be little concern about the spill itself flowing to the Bay or onto coastal Nova Scotia in the immediate future. But as the components disperse within the ocean itself, we may well see local evidence of this disaster.
However, in the immediate future, our natural wealth here in the Bay of Fundy depends on the marine life that migrates back and forth each spring and fall. And that wealth will soon be moving south directly into the path of the the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. The consequences of this may be catastrophic for those organisms and our future.
In a very few weeks, fish, birds and whales will start their southward migration with their young, some directly into the path of the Gulf oil streaming north, while others will fly directly into the waters of the Gulf and the waters and marshes of the coastal states and Caribbean islands.
In response to the Gulf of Mexico oil disaster, President Obama, the most powerful individual in the world, placed a moratorium on offshore drilling ... a sensible move by any responsible standards. At the very least, it would provide some time to attempt to ensure that safeguards are in place and that these regulations and laws are being adhered to. But, industry does not agree because when the oil stops flowing, their insane profits stop as well.
So along comes federal judge Martin Feldman in New Orleans who blocked Obama’s six-month moratorium on new deep-water offshore oil drilling and mocked the decision to impose it as sloppy and illogical. But now it is revealed that Judge Feldman held stock in Transocean LTD, the owner of the Deepwater Horizon rig.(www.politico.com)
So can Minister Rick Doucet do anything worthwhile? I've spent a lifetime trying to point out how we have been destroying our important "eco-economy" here in the Bay of Fundy, an economy that is historically and currently still based on an abundance of natural assets. During this 50 odd years, not one, I repeat, not one Minister of Fisheries for the Province of New Brunswick has ever attacked any of the root problems that have been degrading our environment in the Bay of Fundy since the 1960's.
Perhaps Minister Doucet should consider staying at home to work on the problems we have here now. Smarter men than he are on the scene in the Gulf of Mexico.
Actually, now that I've written this, I think prayer is now in order.
My opinion this morning. Art
Unfortunately, the forces that are currently at work are huge and way beyond the talents of our farcical politicians and their driven by "profit" friends and, perhaps, beyond the scope of common sense and our collective ability to stop the insane destruction of our tiny blue planet..
So let's take it one point at a time.
The Gulf Oil Spill
NASA satellite photo.
Ocean oil drilling is going on around the world and is being opened up more and more in the offshore, Arctic and other sensitive areas. Driven by our greed, we are destabilizing our world at an alarming rate and setting in play forces that we do not totally understand ... all in the name of "profit" and under the excuse of feeding our "essential" energy needs. The Gulf oil spill is only one example of our continuing rape of our precious finite Eden as we rapidly turn it into a potential Hell.
Did you know that there have been over 50, 000 bore holes and wells poked into the ocean bottom in the Gulf of Mexico? And there has been ongoing leakage through the years?
But the current accident is truly enormous and spectacular with experts estimating losses of 35,000 to 60,000 barrels per day ... at the upper limit, that’s 2.5 million gallons of oil per day (Politico.com)
So, it's well established that massive quantities of oil are entering the marine system. But is this oil likely to flow north to the Bay of Fundy?
Gulf Oil and the Bay of Fundy
Circulation in the North Atlantic is dominated by the Gulf Stream, a surface current that brings warm waters of the Caribbean northeastward to bathe the coast of Europe. Because of this, Western Europe is much warmer than other parts of the world at the same latitude.
University of Maryland
Atlantic circulation is driven by cold saline arctic waters. These spill off the floor of the shallow Arctic Ocean into the basin of the deep Atlantic, sinking rapidly and creating "suction" at the surface.
When they do this, warm surface waters from farther south rush northward to fill the space left by the cold arctic waters. By this means, the warm tropical Gulf Stream is pulled north (University of Maryland).
Although the Gulf Stream moves back and forth somewhat as it flows to Europe and it does influence the climate at the southern tip of Nova Scotia, it does not flow into the Bay of Fundy and, as DFO scientists have recently indicated, there should be little concern about the spill itself flowing to the Bay or onto coastal Nova Scotia in the immediate future. But as the components disperse within the ocean itself, we may well see local evidence of this disaster.
However, in the immediate future, our natural wealth here in the Bay of Fundy depends on the marine life that migrates back and forth each spring and fall. And that wealth will soon be moving south directly into the path of the the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. The consequences of this may be catastrophic for those organisms and our future.
In a very few weeks, fish, birds and whales will start their southward migration with their young, some directly into the path of the Gulf oil streaming north, while others will fly directly into the waters of the Gulf and the waters and marshes of the coastal states and Caribbean islands.
Migratory bird routes US FWS
Can We Save our Marine Assets
In response to the Gulf of Mexico oil disaster, President Obama, the most powerful individual in the world, placed a moratorium on offshore drilling ... a sensible move by any responsible standards. At the very least, it would provide some time to attempt to ensure that safeguards are in place and that these regulations and laws are being adhered to. But, industry does not agree because when the oil stops flowing, their insane profits stop as well.
So along comes federal judge Martin Feldman in New Orleans who blocked Obama’s six-month moratorium on new deep-water offshore oil drilling and mocked the decision to impose it as sloppy and illogical. But now it is revealed that Judge Feldman held stock in Transocean LTD, the owner of the Deepwater Horizon rig.(www.politico.com)
So can Minister Rick Doucet do anything worthwhile? I've spent a lifetime trying to point out how we have been destroying our important "eco-economy" here in the Bay of Fundy, an economy that is historically and currently still based on an abundance of natural assets. During this 50 odd years, not one, I repeat, not one Minister of Fisheries for the Province of New Brunswick has ever attacked any of the root problems that have been degrading our environment in the Bay of Fundy since the 1960's.
Perhaps Minister Doucet should consider staying at home to work on the problems we have here now. Smarter men than he are on the scene in the Gulf of Mexico.
Actually, now that I've written this, I think prayer is now in order.
My opinion this morning. Art
Friday, October 16, 2009
"Listen up" Governor Baldacii - Passamaquoddy Bay is a coastal estuary.
My thoughts tonight.
Thanks Vivian
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"A Lasting Legacy", the just-released recommendations of the "Report of the Blue Ribbon Commission on Land Conservation" ordered by the New England Governors Conference (NEGC) and accepted by them at their Sept. 15 meeting in New Brunswick.
The Commission ... recommends five compelling goals for regional collaboration across New England, a set of policy priorities upon which to build a regional conservation strategy. These are:
1. Keep Forests as Forests,
2. Keep Farmlands in Farming,
3. Connect People to the Outdoors,
4. Protect Wildlife Habitat, and
5. Safeguard Coastal and Estuarine Lands.
The full "Report of the NEGC Commission on Land Conservation" (5 MB) can be downloaded from the N.E. Governors' Conference website:
http://www.negc.org/documents/2009/Conservation.pdf
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Photo Credit: Art MacKay
Note: Proposed Calais LNG site is up the estuary near Devil's Head
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Baldacci takes issue to White House - LNG in Bay of Fundy's Passamaquoddy Bay
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Maine Politicians just keep ignoring the real issue. This is the place were we Canadians make our living. It is a unique ecosystem that supports over a half billion dollar sustainable economy each year. It just isn't a place for heavy industry.
Many of the statements that are uttered by those supporting the LNG developments are from individuals who stand to gain personally and they are not concerned about their Canadian neighbours or for that matter, the international Quoddy community. Unfortunately, the press continues to carry half truths and outright lies that are perpetuated by the developers and that seem to be sucked up greedily by the politicians.
Take the 100 vessels that go to Eastport and Bayside ports for example. Most years it's less than 100 actually. These are small coastal freighters carrying rock, wood pulp and fish for God's sake; not highly dangerous LNG and armed high speed security vessels. Take a look at the photograph I prepared to scale. The little freighter that you see in front of a real LNG tanker is one of the largest ever to enter the Bay according to the Bangor Daily News. And the bulk of the ships are much smaller than this - tiny compared to an LNG tanker. see www.bayoffundy.ca/LNG/slideshow to learn why Canadian's are upset by the lack of understanding from their neighbours.
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http://www.bangordailynews.com/detail/122941.html
9/29/09 | 1 comment
Maine, Canada at odds over LNG
Premier's position 'unequivocal' as Baldacci takes issue to White House
By Kevin Miller
BDN Staff
AUGUSTA, Maine - Leaders of Maine and New Brunswick remain deadlocked over the issue of liquefied natural gas tankers in Head Harbor Passage despite recent pledges to work together on energy issues.
During a meeting in New Brunswick last week, the New England governors and premiers of eastern Canadian provinces discussed ways to work more cooperatively to turn the region into an energy powerhouse.
That spirit of cooperation doesn't appear to have thawed the ice jam between Maine and New Brunswick over LNG, however.
On Monday, New Brunswick Premier Shawn Graham reiterated his government's firm opposition to allowing LNG tankers to pass through Head Harbor Passage en route to LNG terminals that have been proposed for the Calais area.
"The province's position remains unequivocal: We oppose the proposed locating of an LNG terminal in Passamaquoddy Bay because of its impacts on New Brunswick," Graham wrote in a commentary published in the Telegraph-Journal newspaper in Saint John, New Brunswick.
"Our environment would be negatively affected, the tourism and environment-based economy of the region would suffer, and the safety and security of the region could be compromised."
A spokesman for Maine Gov. John Baldacci said the governor has seen the op-ed piece and disagrees with some of claims made by his counterpart north of the border. For instance, more than 100 large cargo ships transit the passage safely every year, spokesman David Farmer said.
The two men discussed the issue briefly during last week's summit but spent most of the time talking with the other leaders about areas of cooperation, such as helping bring more green and renewable energy to U.S. markets.
"We believe Maine has an international right to passage along these waters, and that's an area where we are in deep disagreement with the government in New Brunswick," Farmer said.
Baldacci has raised his concerns with representatives of the U.S. State Department, the Canadian government and with senior members of President Barack Obama's staff during a recent meeting at the White House.
There are several proposals for LNG facilities on the Maine side of Passamaquoddy Bay, none of which have received regulatory approval.
Canadian officials have threatened to block any LNG tankers from using Head Harbor Passage en route to the proposed facilities on safety and environmental grounds. The projects are strongly opposed by some residents on both sides of the border who contend that Passamaquoddy Bay with its powerful tides, inclement weather and fragile ecosystem is an inappropriate location for such large facilities.
Maine and U.S. officials contend Canada has no right to interfere with ships in the waterway. Some supporters of the Maine projects have accused Canadian officials of trying to block LNG in Maine in order to protect the financial interests of a new LNG terminal in Saint John built largely to sell gas to U.S. markets. The Canaport terminal is a partnership of New Brunswick-based Irving Oil and the energy company Repsol.
The provincial government is participating as an intervenor in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's review of Downeast LNG's application for an import facility in Robbinston. But Graham made clear in his op-ed piece that FERC has no authority over ship traffic through what he considers Canadian waters.
"Decisions on where ships are allowed to transit fall within the jurisdiction of the government of Canada alone," he wrote.
Farmer said the governor is encouraged that New Brunswick is participating in the FERC review and hopes that the province will change its stance. But Maine's position is firm on the issue, Farmer added.
"We can't allow another country to determine what commerce we engage in," Farmer said. "It's LNG now, but it might be another commodity down the line."
Rob Wyatt of Downeast LNG said he is optimistic that Maine and New Brunswick will continue to work cooperatively on all energy matters, including LNG. The company hopes to have a final environmental impact statement from FERC by year's end.
"We are moving the process forward and working with everybody we can," Wyatt said.
Maine Politicians just keep ignoring the real issue. This is the place were we Canadians make our living. It is a unique ecosystem that supports over a half billion dollar sustainable economy each year. It just isn't a place for heavy industry.
Many of the statements that are uttered by those supporting the LNG developments are from individuals who stand to gain personally and they are not concerned about their Canadian neighbours or for that matter, the international Quoddy community. Unfortunately, the press continues to carry half truths and outright lies that are perpetuated by the developers and that seem to be sucked up greedily by the politicians.
Take the 100 vessels that go to Eastport and Bayside ports for example. Most years it's less than 100 actually. These are small coastal freighters carrying rock, wood pulp and fish for God's sake; not highly dangerous LNG and armed high speed security vessels. Take a look at the photograph I prepared to scale. The little freighter that you see in front of a real LNG tanker is one of the largest ever to enter the Bay according to the Bangor Daily News. And the bulk of the ships are much smaller than this - tiny compared to an LNG tanker. see www.bayoffundy.ca/LNG/slideshow to learn why Canadian's are upset by the lack of understanding from their neighbours.
*******************************
http://www.bangordailynews.com/detail/122941.html
9/29/09 | 1 comment
Maine, Canada at odds over LNG
Premier's position 'unequivocal' as Baldacci takes issue to White House
By Kevin Miller
BDN Staff
AUGUSTA, Maine - Leaders of Maine and New Brunswick remain deadlocked over the issue of liquefied natural gas tankers in Head Harbor Passage despite recent pledges to work together on energy issues.
During a meeting in New Brunswick last week, the New England governors and premiers of eastern Canadian provinces discussed ways to work more cooperatively to turn the region into an energy powerhouse.
That spirit of cooperation doesn't appear to have thawed the ice jam between Maine and New Brunswick over LNG, however.
On Monday, New Brunswick Premier Shawn Graham reiterated his government's firm opposition to allowing LNG tankers to pass through Head Harbor Passage en route to LNG terminals that have been proposed for the Calais area.
"The province's position remains unequivocal: We oppose the proposed locating of an LNG terminal in Passamaquoddy Bay because of its impacts on New Brunswick," Graham wrote in a commentary published in the Telegraph-Journal newspaper in Saint John, New Brunswick.
"Our environment would be negatively affected, the tourism and environment-based economy of the region would suffer, and the safety and security of the region could be compromised."
A spokesman for Maine Gov. John Baldacci said the governor has seen the op-ed piece and disagrees with some of claims made by his counterpart north of the border. For instance, more than 100 large cargo ships transit the passage safely every year, spokesman David Farmer said.
The two men discussed the issue briefly during last week's summit but spent most of the time talking with the other leaders about areas of cooperation, such as helping bring more green and renewable energy to U.S. markets.
"We believe Maine has an international right to passage along these waters, and that's an area where we are in deep disagreement with the government in New Brunswick," Farmer said.
Baldacci has raised his concerns with representatives of the U.S. State Department, the Canadian government and with senior members of President Barack Obama's staff during a recent meeting at the White House.
There are several proposals for LNG facilities on the Maine side of Passamaquoddy Bay, none of which have received regulatory approval.
Canadian officials have threatened to block any LNG tankers from using Head Harbor Passage en route to the proposed facilities on safety and environmental grounds. The projects are strongly opposed by some residents on both sides of the border who contend that Passamaquoddy Bay with its powerful tides, inclement weather and fragile ecosystem is an inappropriate location for such large facilities.
Maine and U.S. officials contend Canada has no right to interfere with ships in the waterway. Some supporters of the Maine projects have accused Canadian officials of trying to block LNG in Maine in order to protect the financial interests of a new LNG terminal in Saint John built largely to sell gas to U.S. markets. The Canaport terminal is a partnership of New Brunswick-based Irving Oil and the energy company Repsol.
The provincial government is participating as an intervenor in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's review of Downeast LNG's application for an import facility in Robbinston. But Graham made clear in his op-ed piece that FERC has no authority over ship traffic through what he considers Canadian waters.
"Decisions on where ships are allowed to transit fall within the jurisdiction of the government of Canada alone," he wrote.
Farmer said the governor is encouraged that New Brunswick is participating in the FERC review and hopes that the province will change its stance. But Maine's position is firm on the issue, Farmer added.
"We can't allow another country to determine what commerce we engage in," Farmer said. "It's LNG now, but it might be another commodity down the line."
Rob Wyatt of Downeast LNG said he is optimistic that Maine and New Brunswick will continue to work cooperatively on all energy matters, including LNG. The company hopes to have a final environmental impact statement from FERC by year's end.
"We are moving the process forward and working with everybody we can," Wyatt said.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Canadian Beaver Stalls LNG Tanker in Head Harbour Passage
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Great cartoon from the Telegraph Journal: http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com/opinion/article/801594
Great cartoon from the Telegraph Journal: http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com/opinion/article/801594
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Bay of Fundy Whales "Speak Out" on the Threat of LNG at Quoddy
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As we have indicated through blog posts and photos from contributors in the Quoddy area, Head Harbour Passage is filled will finbacks, humpbacks, minkes, porpoise and even endangered right whales, not to mention thousands of birds, tuna, sunfish, basking sharks and more (see ilovequoddywild.blogspot.com and quoddylinkmarine.blogspot.com).
In spite of the obvious unsuitability of this passage for gigantic LNG tankers, high-powered tugs, and fast, armed security boats, Maine senators in Washington and Augusta, the Governor of Maine, and maybe, just maybe, the premier of New Brunswick don't seem to understand why this place is so valuable economically and ecologically. It isn't that they haven't been told, that's for sure.
Well, now the whales are "speaking out" through Quoddy community members whose lives are dependent on this special place. The links below are the submissions that have been sent to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in opposition to LNG terminals in Passamaquoddy Bay and tanker passage through Head Harbour Passage at Campobello. We ignore these messages at our own peril.
As we have indicated through blog posts and photos from contributors in the Quoddy area, Head Harbour Passage is filled will finbacks, humpbacks, minkes, porpoise and even endangered right whales, not to mention thousands of birds, tuna, sunfish, basking sharks and more (see ilovequoddywild.blogspot.com and quoddylinkmarine.blogspot.com).
In spite of the obvious unsuitability of this passage for gigantic LNG tankers, high-powered tugs, and fast, armed security boats, Maine senators in Washington and Augusta, the Governor of Maine, and maybe, just maybe, the premier of New Brunswick don't seem to understand why this place is so valuable economically and ecologically. It isn't that they haven't been told, that's for sure.
Well, now the whales are "speaking out" through Quoddy community members whose lives are dependent on this special place. The links below are the submissions that have been sent to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in opposition to LNG terminals in Passamaquoddy Bay and tanker passage through Head Harbour Passage at Campobello. We ignore these messages at our own peril.
Docket(s): CP07-52-000 Filing Type: Comment on Filing Description: Comment of Art A. MacKay in Docket(s)/Project(s) CP07-52-000 Submission Date: 6/19/2009 To view the document for this Filing, click here http://elibrary.FERC.gov/idmws/file_list.asp?accession_num=20090619-5133
Docket(s): CP07-52-000 Filing Type: Comment on Filing Description: Comment of Dale Mitchell in Docket(s)/Project(s) CP07-52-000 Submission Date: 6/10/2009 To view the document for this Filing, click here http://elibrary.FERC.gov/idmws/file_list.asp?accession_num=20090611-5132
Docket(s): CP07-52-000 Filing Type: Comment on Filing Description: Comment of Fred Whoriskey, JR in Docket(s)/Project(s) CP07-52-000 Submission Date: 7/3/2009
To view the document for this Filing, click here http://elibrary.FERC.gov/idmws/file_list.asp?accession_num=20090706-5170
Docket(s): CP07-52-000 CP07-53-000 CP07-53-001 Filing Type: Comment on Filing Description: Comments of Brian William Flynn on the Downeast LNG import facility under CP07-53, et. al..
To view the document for this Filing, click here http://elibrary.FERC.gov/idmws/file_list.asp?accession_num=20090908-5013
Docket(s): CP07-52-000 Filing Type: Comment on Filing Description: Comment of Arthur A. MacKay. Current whale, bird, fish and human activity in Head Harbour Passage shows importance of ecosystem under CP07-52. To view the document for this Filing, click here http://elibrary.FERC.gov/idmws/file_list.asp?accession_num=20090910-5004
Docket(s): CP07-52-000 CP07-53-000 CP07-53-001 Filing Type: Comment on Filing Description: Comment of Save Passamaquoddy Bay regarding whale safety from LNG ship strikes under CP07-52 et al.
To view the document for this Filing, click here http://elibrary.FERC.gov/idmws/file_list.asp?accession_num=20090916-5006
Docket(s): PF08-24-000 Filing Type: Comment on Filing Description: Comment of Joyce Morrell, member of Save Passamaquoddy Bay Canada Inc. under PF08-24. To view the document for this Filing, click here http://elibrary.FERC.gov/idmws/file_list.asp?accession_num=20090916-5012Photo Credit: Tim Foulkes
Friday, August 28, 2009
LNG - Bay of Fundy's Endangered Right Whales Move Inshore at Quoddy - LNG Trump Card?
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Developers who wish to establish LNG Terminals in Passamaquoddy Bay seem to know that the trump card from their opposition might well be the whales that literally plug Head Harbour Passage each summer and the endangered North Atlantic right whales that, later in the season, move into the approaches to Head Harbour Passage.
This year is no exception. As whale watchers have been reporting at ilovequoddywild.blogspot.com, large numbers of finbacks and porpoise are using the passage and approaches daily and 15 to 20 right whales were reported near the entrance by whale watchers yesterday.
Together with Canada's opposition, whales brought down the Pittston Oil Refinery at Eastport many years ago. That will most certainly be the case again as listed species like finbacks, porpoise and right whales frequent this essential habitat and feed a vital Quoddy eco-economy based on tourism, fisheries, aquaculture,education,and research.
Art MacKay
Photo Credit: Danielle Dion, Quoddy Link Marine
Developers who wish to establish LNG Terminals in Passamaquoddy Bay seem to know that the trump card from their opposition might well be the whales that literally plug Head Harbour Passage each summer and the endangered North Atlantic right whales that, later in the season, move into the approaches to Head Harbour Passage.
This year is no exception. As whale watchers have been reporting at ilovequoddywild.blogspot.com, large numbers of finbacks and porpoise are using the passage and approaches daily and 15 to 20 right whales were reported near the entrance by whale watchers yesterday.
Together with Canada's opposition, whales brought down the Pittston Oil Refinery at Eastport many years ago. That will most certainly be the case again as listed species like finbacks, porpoise and right whales frequent this essential habitat and feed a vital Quoddy eco-economy based on tourism, fisheries, aquaculture,education,and research.
Art MacKay
Photo Credit: Danielle Dion, Quoddy Link Marine
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Head Harbour Passage and LNG - maybe it's all about something else?
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Why legislate when it could cut off Canada's options for other port expansion on the Canadian side or, more ominously, the planned filling of Head Harbour Passage and Western Passage with multiple, whale-grinding energy turbines ... a much greater threat than an LNG tanker. Or... perhaps both sides want a conflict to be adjudicated in international court? Or are we simply pawns in a bigger game?
Makes one wonder if our politicians are truly interested in the best interests of their Quoddy constituents?
I don't hear much about these upcoming issues from our erstwhile leaders of SPBC LTD.
I know, I know shhh ... you might upset someone or give succour to the enemy. But as Max says, legislation would resolve the issue! The foundation has already been prepared for a Marine Protected Area or a Marine Managed Area. Get on with it!!! We've been screwing around with this since Pittston ... that's over 40 years!
That's my opinion tonight. Art
Columnist Max Wolfe argues that Canada can protect its territorial waters on the east coast by regulating ship traffic in Head Harbour Passage.
The occasion this week was the annual general meeting of Save Passamaquoddy Bay Canada, in the Anglican Church in St. Andrews. About 200 people turned out to sit on hard pews and listen. Speakers were well informed and discussion was limited. It was too hot or maybe the converted had been preached to and were more or less satisfied with what they heard. There were no dissenting or even critical voices.
SPBC Ltd. has been fighting to keep liquified natural gas tankers out of Head Harbour Passage and Passamaquoddy Bay for three years now. There were no oratorical flourishes, stirring speeches or explosive applause at the meeting. It was all very professional and low key. The time for fiery oratory passed three years ago when the issue first hit the headlines. Now the group is slogging through the mud of the required political processes working at both the provincial and the federal levels. And the process has been ongoing for so long that SPBC is now educating the next generation of bureaucrats and politicians. They don't tire, and if anyone expects them to fold their tents and slink away into the night, think again.
These people and their supporters from around Passamaquoddy Bay see the threat of tankers in their area as not just an unacceptable challenge to Canadian sovereignty. It is a massive threat to their environment and to their way of life. So why is it that the residents of Washington County, Maine don't see it that way too? Simply because they have been misled into believing that this is a "jobs for Mainers" proposition and they need the jobs. There will, of course, be jobs for Mainers, but not very many.
SPBC has already made significant progress. They have pressured the federal government into stating more than once that Canada will not cooperate with the U.S. regulatory people looking into the matter. It's our turf, we don't negotiate with you or anyone on that. Canada promised to send a diplomatic note to the Americans and has done so. Good for us! In fact, they have done everything but be effective.
As one person aptly pointed out, if we haven't been able to do "enough" to grab the American attention, why would the Americans need to do anything at all? It is hard to argue against that, but on the other hand, the longer it all drags out, the more likely that American investors will move their money somewhere else. Time is on our side, and the longer the process takes the better for us.
The mood of the meeting was one of satisfaction with the work the SPBC was doing, but only of grudging acceptance of the snail-like pace of the negotiations, if negotiations are even in process. The meeting was typically Canadian and didn't even have the gumption to say "I'm mad and I'm not going to put up with this any longer." That is not the Canadian way. To get the American attention we need to explode our own nuclear weapon or elect a fundamentalist Muslim prime minister rather than a fundamentalist Christian one.
The big trouble is that there is never just one issue on the table when dealing with the Americans. There are always half a dozen pots simmering at the same time. There's trade, softwood lumber, border crossings, Cuba, Iraq and a whole host of problems that come from allowing ourselves to be in the American hip pocket, if not attached at the hip.
There is one thing we could do that would show we are serious and that would not involve detonating a nuclear weapon in order to get the Americans to sit up and take note, and that is to legislate.
Head Harbour passage is our internal waters, so no one can stop us from legislating rules for its use. If we were to do that, chances are the Americans might back off altogether. It would certainly give the backers of the various LNG schemes cause to reconsider their investment plans. But we are too timid.
Regrettably, in the face of the Americans we are gutless.
The posturings of the Shawn Grahams and the Greg Thompsons of the world are not going to change that. Our failure to regulate passage through these waters is the measure of our ineffectiveness. Expressions of concern by our governments are not enough. It appears the politicians have to be dragged to action, kicking and screaming. And the problem is in large part ours. We should know by now if we don't push them they won't do anything.
Our governments have been doing a reasonable job so far. We need to push them to finish the job.
Max Wolfe is a freelance writer who resides at St. Andrews.
Original article in TJ: http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com/opinion/article/768444
Photo Credit SeaGen turbine: wikipedia.com
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Graham touts N.B. tax cuts at Moncton business meeting
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Monday, May 4, 2009
Province softening stance on LNG tankers in Passamaquoddy Bay
Premier Shawn Graham assures the people of Charlotte County of his support in their opposition to LNG in Passamaquoddy Bay. (Art MacKay Photo 2005)
I maintain that the position of the Government of New Brunswick has never been firm and that they have been walking a middle of the road public position with their interest in big business and political power groups taking precedence over their obligation to their constituents.
Unless they have been hiding under a rock these last few years, the Graham Government should be well aware of the position of the people of coastal Charlotte County and the reasons for their opposition to the development of ANY heavy industry in Passamaquoddy Bay, West Isles and Head Harbour Passage. If they are not, they are ignorant of the true enovironmental AND economic importance of this area; not to mention the importance of the natural resources that will become vital as we continue to experience global collpase of the oil industry and increased costs of food distribution.
With the proposed developments in tidal power in Head Harbour Passage the future looks bleak for this national treasure and the near billion dollar economy that this unique ecosystem supports.
Art
Last Updated: Monday, May 4, 2009 | 6:52 AM AT Comments1Recommend2
CBC News
The New Brunswick government has toned down its rhetoric when it comes to opposing the construction of liquefied natural gas terminals on the U.S. side of Passamaquoddy Bay.
Energy Minister Jack Keir said the province is not opposed to the terminals and will let the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission process unfold.
The province, he said, has always backed the regulatory process that will decide the fate of any planned LNG terminals in Maine.
"If the federal government, both federal governments, suggest that it is a safe and reliable terminal then everybody is in agreement on that. But the process has to take place," he said.
The federal government has strongly opposed LNG tankers in Passamaquoddy Bay and Michael Wilson, Canada's ambassador in Washington, delivered a diplomatic note in February 2007 to the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, citing safety and environmental concerns.
The letter said Canada, to protect the environment, will not permit tankers to sail through the narrow passage between New Brunswick's Deer and Campobello islands.
The government of Premier Shawn Graham said it supported the federal government's position.
"We are opposed to tanker traffic through the Passamaquoddy Bay. And our intervener status will ensure that those concerns are addressed appropriately," Graham said at the time.
The province has enlisted a Washington law firm to intervene in the U.S. regulatory process on behalf of the people of New Brunswick.
Group concerned about tone change
Jessie Davis, who heads Save Passamaquoddy Bay Canada, a group opposed to the development of LNG terminals on the bay, said she is surprised at the way Keir describes the province's position.
She said a delegation from her group went to Fredericton to meet with provincial officials two weeks ago.
"They were extremely clear at that time. They strongly oppose the terminals," she said.
Davis said her group has been assured the lawyers working on behalf of the province are still intervening against the terminals.
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Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Aerials of LNG Protest St. Andrews Wharf
Tim Foulkes wrote:
That's a great video. I kept looking for a shot of that annoying little airplane that was trying to stay legal above the crowd, shooting pics from another perspective. First one is mine, the second one is Jeff Irving's, two of many.
Tim
Friday, January 30, 2009
Fundy's Bayside Quarry Threatens Marine Life and Community
I remember I was sitting with my wife; first-born, Kim; and our friend Eric McCartney in a barren walk-up apartment on the island of Montreal when the Cuban Missile Crisis was developing. We watched President Kennedy's announcement and the developing drama on our little black and white TV.
As we were drawn into the enormity of a situation that we shared with everyone else in the world, we considered our options if something happened. We would be trapped with 3 million other people on an island that was undoubtedly a target for a nuclear ICBM. In no time at all, we would have no food, no money, and only a tiny old Volkswagen bug that would be no competition for the flood of vehicles and people leaving on the limited capacity bridges, assuming gas was available.
Since there were no pressing obligations at McGill University where I was a student and lab instructor, we decided to go home to Charlotte County before the crisis was fully developed. The reasons were obvious: it was exceedingly unlikely that anything but an errant missile would find us and, secondly, as I remember saying, "We won't have to worry about starving." So off we went to St. Stephen , packed like sardines into our little VW.
While we were subsequently ridiculed for our move, history shows that it was the right decision.
The point of this little personal story was that we knew that the richness of the Quoddy Region would sustain us, winter and summer. Today, it is a totally different story, assuming our new generation even knew how to harvest the wealth at our doorstep and our gun-totting wardens would allow us to harvest anything without the appropriate and costly licence. And, of course, we now have a nuclear power plant that is a magent for missiles and terorists.
When we finally came home for good in the 1960's, our precious resources had been hit hard by coastal developments particularly the mill in Woodland where an operation there was allowed , by our 3 levels of government, to dump black liquor directly into the river, killing a vital fishery in the St. Croix River Estuary and western Passamaquoddy Bay that I have valued at $10 - $20 million annually in today's dollars.
There was a new ditty then in response to the horrific smell of the river and the bubbling mudflats. "St. Andrews-by-the-Sea, St. Stephen-by-the-smell." It's not quite so applicable in recent years and we have seen encouraging signs that our marine resources could rebuild, but now a new threats are looming.
Some years ago, Jamer Materials was allowed to mine aggregate at the Bayside Port under the expressed understanding that this was to increase laydown area for the Bayside Port. None of this has occurred and the company has now announced its quarry expansion plans for a vast area across the main highway (highway 127) leading into St. Andrews around (literally) the Simpson Hill area. This is in the Chamcook watershed, the water source for the Town of St. Andrews, Atlantic Salmon Federation, Biological Station, Huntsman Marine Science Centre and other vital operations and communities.
But, they claim, all drainage will be directed back across the highway to the existing quarry site. Well, we now have underwater surveys and aerial photos that show sediments from the existing quarry operations have destroyed important scallop, lobster, and fish habitat directly offshore from the site. Expansion will only exacerbate this problem.
This is in direct contravention of Canada's Oceans Act and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. It's long past the time when Environment Canada and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans should step in.
Write or email your ministers of fisheries and environment about this problem today. While you're at it, let MP Greg Thompson know that you appreciate his efforts in fighting LNG and the Quarry on behalf of his constituents.
Times are tough and we will need all of our natural resources to survive future challenges. Unless we start protecting our own assets, they will be gone and us with them.
That's my opinion anyway.
Art
As we were drawn into the enormity of a situation that we shared with everyone else in the world, we considered our options if something happened. We would be trapped with 3 million other people on an island that was undoubtedly a target for a nuclear ICBM. In no time at all, we would have no food, no money, and only a tiny old Volkswagen bug that would be no competition for the flood of vehicles and people leaving on the limited capacity bridges, assuming gas was available.
Since there were no pressing obligations at McGill University where I was a student and lab instructor, we decided to go home to Charlotte County before the crisis was fully developed. The reasons were obvious: it was exceedingly unlikely that anything but an errant missile would find us and, secondly, as I remember saying, "We won't have to worry about starving." So off we went to St. Stephen , packed like sardines into our little VW.
While we were subsequently ridiculed for our move, history shows that it was the right decision.
The point of this little personal story was that we knew that the richness of the Quoddy Region would sustain us, winter and summer. Today, it is a totally different story, assuming our new generation even knew how to harvest the wealth at our doorstep and our gun-totting wardens would allow us to harvest anything without the appropriate and costly licence. And, of course, we now have a nuclear power plant that is a magent for missiles and terorists.
When we finally came home for good in the 1960's, our precious resources had been hit hard by coastal developments particularly the mill in Woodland where an operation there was allowed , by our 3 levels of government, to dump black liquor directly into the river, killing a vital fishery in the St. Croix River Estuary and western Passamaquoddy Bay that I have valued at $10 - $20 million annually in today's dollars.
There was a new ditty then in response to the horrific smell of the river and the bubbling mudflats. "St. Andrews-by-the-Sea, St. Stephen-by-the-smell." It's not quite so applicable in recent years and we have seen encouraging signs that our marine resources could rebuild, but now a new threats are looming.
Some years ago, Jamer Materials was allowed to mine aggregate at the Bayside Port under the expressed understanding that this was to increase laydown area for the Bayside Port. None of this has occurred and the company has now announced its quarry expansion plans for a vast area across the main highway (highway 127) leading into St. Andrews around (literally) the Simpson Hill area. This is in the Chamcook watershed, the water source for the Town of St. Andrews, Atlantic Salmon Federation, Biological Station, Huntsman Marine Science Centre and other vital operations and communities.
But, they claim, all drainage will be directed back across the highway to the existing quarry site. Well, we now have underwater surveys and aerial photos that show sediments from the existing quarry operations have destroyed important scallop, lobster, and fish habitat directly offshore from the site. Expansion will only exacerbate this problem.
This is in direct contravention of Canada's Oceans Act and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. It's long past the time when Environment Canada and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans should step in.
Write or email your ministers of fisheries and environment about this problem today. While you're at it, let MP Greg Thompson know that you appreciate his efforts in fighting LNG and the Quarry on behalf of his constituents.
Times are tough and we will need all of our natural resources to survive future challenges. Unless we start protecting our own assets, they will be gone and us with them.
That's my opinion anyway.
Art
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