Third Party Review of Alton Gas Project Complete

July 23, 2015

The Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq Chiefs that represents Kwilmu’kw Maw-klusuaqn Negotiation Office (KMKNO) has recently received the completed Third Party Review of the Alton Natural Gas LP Brine Storage and Discharge Facility from Conestoga-Rovers & Associates (now GHD Limited). During this Review, GHD Limited examined existing data and evaluated the scientific and technical information in order to inform the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia, in their consultation with the Province of Nova Scotia, about potential impacts and risks associated with the project.

After the three-month review, GHD Limited identified a number of gaps on the Alton Gas Project and provided recommendations for further work.

Clearly recognizing that there is still much research to be done, the Assembly is demanding that the project stays on hold as meaningful consultation with the Mi’kmaq must be conducted and the gaps identified in the Third Party Review need to be thoroughly addressed.

“There are a number of recommendations to be implemented before any decisions are made on this project,” said Chief Paul Prosper, Assembly Lead Chief on Energy. “We are still concerned about the potential impacts to the fish and the environment.”

The Assembly recommendation that a scientifically led peer review committee be established, including the Mi’kmaq conservation experts, to ensure that meaningful involvement of the Mi’kmaq and that the “two-eyed seeing” approach is included.

Stemming from the Review further consultation under the Terms of Reference for a Mi’kmaq-Nova Scotia-Canada Consultation Process must take place for the 12 Mi’kmaw communities party to KMKNO regarding project splitting and conditional approvals for future projects.

Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia continue to exercise traditional practices of hunting, fishing, and stewardship of the resources and environment in the area of the proposed Alton Gas project and it is important to the

Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq Chiefs and KMKNO that any development will not change or impact that.

KMKNO works on behalf of the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq Chiefs in the negotiations and consultations between the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia, the Province of Nova Scotia and the Government of Canada. The purpose of these negotiations and consultations is to implement our Aboriginal and Treaty Rights from the Treaties signed by our ancestors in the 1700’s. For further information visit our website at www.mikmaqrights.com.

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For more information contact:

Crystal Dorey, Communications Officer
Kwilmu’kw Maw-klusuaqn Negotiation Office
Phone: (902) 843-3880
Cell: (902) 957-0549
E-mail: crystaldorey@mikmaqrights.com

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