Leader of the Official Opposition John Hogan, KC, and Official Opposition Critic for Energy and Mines Fred Hutton are calling on Premier Tony Wakeham to provide clarity and stability for Newfoundland and Labrador’s offshore oil and gas sector.
As reported by AllNewfoundlandandLabrador, Equinor has pushed back a critical decision window for the Bay du Nord offshore oil project.
“Learning this information through media reporting, rather than directly from the government, is deeply concerning,” says Hogan. “Bay du Nord represents a generational opportunity for jobs, economic growth, and long-term revenues for Newfoundland and Labrador. Any uncertainty created by government silence risks putting that opportunity in jeopardy. Mr. Wakeham is not being forthcoming with the public, having chosen not to announce the extension of the deadline. That raises further questions about what else the public does not know, most notably, the status of negotiations for a benefits agreement.”
Hutton says the delay and secretive nature of Mr. Wakeham underscores the need for open and decisive leadership from the provincial government. “The government must demonstrate that Newfoundland and Labrador remains a reliable, stable partner for responsible offshore development. That means clear communication and a clear commitment to the offshore industry.”
Hogan adds that the situation echoes recent concerns surrounding the Churchill Falls MOU, another file of major economic importance to the province. “Whether it’s Churchill Falls or Bay du Nord, these are not files that can be left drifting,” says Hogan. “They are too important to the future of Newfoundland and Labrador to let slip through indecision or delay.”
The Official Opposition is calling on the Conservative government to be transparent, publicly outline its plan for engaging with Equinor, and provide assurances that the project remains on track.
“Newfoundland and Labrador cannot afford to lose momentum on Bay du Nord,” says Hutton. “The government must act now.”
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