New Brunswick to review lifting natural gas moratorium

New Brunswick is set to begin a public review of its decade-long moratorium on natural gas development. Premier Susan Holt announced plans for this review on Wednesday, which could potentially lead to a resumption of hydraulic fracking for natural gas extraction. The review, spanning five months, aims to evaluate opportunities that could benefit the province's economy, healthcare system, and residents' financial wellbeing.

Premier Holt emphasized that New Brunswick has what the world desires and the government must explore local opportunities due to rising living costs and recent U.S. tariffs. The moratorium was established by former Liberal Premier Brian Gallant in 2014 following environmental and social concerns. Gallant stated that the moratorium would remain in place until five conditions were met, including public acceptance, credible public information, infrastructure plans, First Nation consultations, and a solid financial plan.

Natural Resource Minister John Herron noted that scientific and technological advancements since the moratorium could now determine the best processes for New Brunswick. Herron stressed that if safety cannot be guaranteed, fracking would not proceed. The review process will heavily involve consultations with the province's First Nations communities, following an "open and ongoing" dialogue with them.

Holt acknowledged past consultation gaps and pledged to include First Nations in the process. Currently, no private-sector proposals exist to resume fracking if the moratorium is lifted. Holt, who previously opposed fracking, believes the situation has changed, citing pressure from rising living costs, tariffs, and increasing energy demand. The review results will be released in January 2027, with monthly progress reports.