2021-07-12

Here’s what our readers have been saying:

Time for government to step up re: fossil fuels

Results of a recent poll would indicate that Nova Scotia residents are clearly ahead of both their provincial and federal governments when it comes to recognizing the necessity for strong and immediate action on climate change, social justice and transitioning away from fossil fuels.

The results of a poll, conducted in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador by The Atlantic Quarterly, on behalf of the Council of Canadians, Sierra Club Foundation and the Ecology Action Centre, confirms that more than four out of five people surveyed want to see a transition to renewable energy and energy efficiency, which would include training and income support for affected workers.

In the same poll, more than three out of four said any post-pandemic recovery must prioritize support for people who have been made vulnerable by the current economy, including women, people of colour and Indigenous people.

It is heartening to learn that an overwhelming number of Nova Scotians are heeding the climate warnings and seeing the way forward as an opportunity to create a more just and equitable society. Unfortunately, our governments are lagging behind their constituents. In the midst of this incredible unity of public opinion, not a single government - provincial or federal - has created a plan that lays out concrete steps to "build back better."

In recent years, the alarm bells declaring a climate crisis have been blasting around the world. In April, TD bank reported that up to 450,000 oil and gas worker will lose their jobs in the industry by 2030, and that governments should plan now to help give those workers a soft landing in a new and more sustainable industry. And just last month, the International Energy Agency, the world's most influential energy modelling agency, called for an end to all new fossil fuel infrastructure development. IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said that any money put into new oil development now would be "junk investments." This was just a month ago, but the same advice came a couple of years ago from a panel of some of the world's top investors.

This poll makes it clear that citizens in this province support the move away from a fossil fuel inspired economy and embrace a just transition to a renewable energy strategy. To begin this transition, the Nova Scotia government must renew the moratorium on George's Bank and stop all offshore oil and gas development. Our governments must acknowledge that investing in new oil, gas and coal development is in direct conflict with our global energy reality and the will of the people.

Within a few months, we will likely have both a provincial and federal election. There is a lot at stake. We need action on the climate crisis, not fancy words and window dressing. We have an opportunity to elect representatives who understand our current reality and can build economic security through an intentional and equitable transition from fossil fuels to renewables and efficiency. Moreover, we have an opportunity to reject candidates who refuse to act on the climate and inequality crisis and support a just and equitable post-pandemic recovery plan.

A Just Recovery for Nova Scotia is within our reach. Governments at all three levels need to work with residents to make it a reality.

Marilyn Keddy, Marion Moore

On behalf of

Campaign to Protect Offshore Nova Scotia (CPONS)

It's not all about profit

The site for the new and much-needed nursing home here in Mahone Bay has been land cleared to accommodate the construction. This site was not a mature forest.

We are fortunate that the current government has approved the application for this much-needed facility. The MacLeod Group is assuming the risk and responsibility, and the province and the citizens will receive the benefit.

Ms. Braun Taylor, it is particularly important that our older and infirmed residents have safe and secure accommodation in this province. Surely you are not suggesting that those citizens requiring assistance and care not have a place to go?

The construction of all structures, for whatever reason, requires land preparation: homes, stores, restaurants, universities, hospitals, banks, etc.

The citizens of Mahone Bay are very proud of this project with the MacLeod Group, and look forward to the opening of this new facility.

John Bain

Mahone Bay

Why move the ferry?

I live in Chester and I can't get my head around why the Tancook Ferry wharf was moved from Chester to Blandford.

There must have been considerable loss of tourists and Tancookers who must have shopped in Chester, had medical appointments, etc.

The whole transition was very quietly negotiated, while Chester representatives were very quiet.

I hope the roads of Tancook will be up to the wear and tear of all the vehicles that will arrive there.

Will the charm of Tancook withstand the impact of commercial trucks roaring around?

Peter McCurdy

Chester