The Nova Scotia Environment Minister, Gordon Wilson, has made a decision that the Northern Pulp effluent treatment facility will be required to submit an environmental impact assessment before proceeding.

The Federal Government’s decision to not go ahead with a federal impact assessment, including consultations with all First Nations affected by the project, was disheartening to the Mi’kmaq Leadership. However, the PEI Mi’kmaq First Nations Leadership applauds the decision of the Nova Scotia Government to require Northern Pulp effluent treatment facility to submit more information.

“We are happy that this project will require an environmental assessment process.” said Chief Darlene Bernard. “As stewards of the environment, we’re deeply concerned about the potential harm to the Northumberland Strait marine life this project could have created, lasting for generations.”

The PEI Mi’kmaq First Nations stand with the people of Epekwitk aq Piktuk, and other districts throughout Mi’kma’ki, in the protection of water resources.

“We continue to be strongly opposed to this project. The potential harm of the discharge into the Northumberland Strait could have devastating effects to both the cultural and economically significant fishing industry,” said Chief Junior Gould.

The PEI Mi’kmaq Leadership looks forward to moving ahead on Aboriginal and treaty rights issues, including consultation on issues such as these.