FREDERICTON (GNB) – As a result of the findings from the Commission on Hydraulic Fracturing, the provincial government will continue its moratorium on hydraulic fracturing indefinitely.

‘We have been clear that we would not allow this activity to go forward unless our five conditions were met,’ said Energy and Mines Minister Donald Arseneault. ‘Creating jobs is our number one priority, but not at any cost. It is clear that our conditions cannot be satisfied in the foreseeable future.’

The five conditions that must be met include ensuring:

• a social licence is in place;

• clear and credible information is available about the impacts of hydraulic fracturing on public health, the environment and water, allowing the government to develop a country-leading regulatory regime with sufficient enforcement capabilities;