N.B. legislature resumes amid protests over shale gas development

A group of anti-shale gas demonstrators protest outside the legislature in Fredericton, N.B. on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2013.

FREDERICTON -- People protesting shale gas development in New Brunswick have gathered outside the legislature as the provincial government prepares to deliver a throne speech to open the fall session.

The demonstrators are calling on the government to stop issuing exploratory licences for shale gas, but Premier David Alward has said he would like to see a shale gas sector flourish, as long as it is safe and sustainable.

Julia Linke of the Council of Canadians says Alward isn't listening to the public's concerns over shale gas and she questions whether he is fit for the job.

But Alward says a thriving shale gas industry could create much-needed jobs and revenue in the province.

Opponents of shale gas exploration are concerned about the impact on the environment, particularly on water supplies.

Margaret Tusz-King, a municipal councillor in Sackville, N.B., says she doubts provincial regulations are strong enough to alleviate such concerns.