CLF Statement on Canada’s Extending Moratorium on Drilling Georges Bank

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Peter Shelley, CLF, (617) 850-1754 or pshelley@clf.org
Karen Wood, CLF, (617) 850-1722 or (978) 857-5389

Today Nova Scotia Premier Darrell Dexter extended a moratorium on oil and gas drilling on Georges Bank for another three years, until December 31, 2015. Premier Dexter cited the continuing oil spill disaster in the Gulf of Mexico as a factor in his decision. The Conservation Law Foundation responded with this statement from Peter Shelley, vice president and director of its Massachusetts Advocacy Center:

(Boston, MA  May 13, 2010) “For decades, CLF has advocated for the full protection of Georges Bank from the hazards of oil and gas drilling. We are pleased that Nova Scotia Premier Dexter has decided to extend the moratorium on the Canadian side of the border and we applaud his decision. The need to protect the incredible richness of marine life and to make this area available to sustainable fishing far outweigh the risks of catastrophic pollution and habitat degradation caused by oil drilling,” said Peter Shelley, vice president, Conservation Law Foundation.

“CLF believes it is time for a permanent ban on oil and gas drilling on Georges Bank and urges both the Canadian and United States governments to act to do so. There is no more need for study and delay. Georges Bank is an area of international importance and deserves permanent protection from oil drilling now.”

The Conservation Law Foundation (www.clf.org) works to solve the most significant environmental challenges facing New England.  CLF’s advocates use law, economics and science to create innovative strategies to conserve natural resources, protect public health and promote vital communities in our region.  Founded, in 1966, CLF is a nonprofit, member-supported organization with offices in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.