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Decision allows for debate and hearings but will not result in any changes in the already-negotiated $3.2-billion contract, government says.
Fredericton (1 March 2010) - The New Brunswick government has announced it is delaying the $3.2-billion sale of NB Power assets to Hydro Quebec for nearly two months to allow time for debate on the controversial deal.
Energy Minister Jack Keir said legislation to sell 10 power plants will be introduced about the end of March and a legislative committee will have more than 30 days to examine the bill before television cameras, go over the wording of the final contract and call experts to testify. The target date for passage has been set back until May 21.
“There will be a full and robust debate in the legislative assembly as well as an opportunity for all New Brunswickers to submit their questions and concerns before our energy plan is signed and implemented,” the minister announced.
However, he emphasized that negotiations with Quebec are complete and said the hearings will not result in any changes in the final wording of the contract.
The proposed sale has been met with massive opposition since it was announced last November. The New Brunswick Union of Public and Private Employees (NBUPPE/NUPGE) is one of the main groups fighting the sale.
Under the deal, Hydro Quebec would acquire 10 power plants and residential energy rates in New Brunswick would be frozen for five years while large industrial rates would be cut by 23%.
Conservative Opposition Leader David Alward said the Liberal administration of Premier Shawn Graham should delay the deal until after the next provincial election - scheduled on Sept. 27.
Alward said he is pleased New Brunswickers will have a chance to take a closer look at the deal but he does not believe it will make much difference in the end.
“We have grave concerns on whether or not this is just window dressing and whether this government is open to change,” he said.
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More information:
• Summit will explore options to sale of NB Power
• Agenda for Options Summit Feb. 22 in Fredericton
• Experts condemn $3.2-billion sale of NB Power
• Legal challenge brewing over sale of NB Power
• Vigil will protest the undemocratic sale of NB Power
• Website: nbpowernotforsale.org
• Amended $3.2-billion NB Power sale announced
• New Brunswickers protest sale of NB Power
• Public summit Dec. 9 to oppose NB Power sale
• New Brunswickers strongly oppose NB Power sale
• NBUPPE condemns controversial sale of NB Power