Premier Steven McNeil wants the oil industry to know that Nova Scotia is willing and ready for business.
He believes that the province does not have to choose between Fisheries or offshore oil.
“If the resource is there, and I believe that it can be done in a safe and environmental way. We have lots of possibilities off our coast. BP now will be going out and doing some drilling for test wells, we’re encouraged by that. The fishery is s mainstay, it’s critical. As a son of southwestern Nova Scotia, I know the importance of all the fisheries. But I don’t think its either/or. I believe these sectors can operate together.”
McNeil went on to say that the oil industry would bring jobs to Nova Scotians, but he couldn’t give specific numbers .
He also defending the unelected Offshore Petroleum Board which has been given approval to drill offshore.
The premier believes people wouldn’t want a board that would have political appointees.
“This is a board is independent, that’s operated well. It’s all about striking a balance. protecting the environment while creating economic opportunities for our citizens.”
McNeil will be one of the many people from over 100 countries to travel to Houston to take part in the annual Offshore Technology Conference.
This is one of the largest gatherings of energy professionals from around the world.