Saint John Board of Trade Call to Action!

On October 29, 2009 the need for a comprehensive energy policy was brought to the forefront of New Brunswick politics with the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding outlining the proposed sale of NB Power to Hydro Quebec. Since October, New Brunswick businesses, citizens and politicians alike have been actively engaged in the discourse regarding Energy Policy in our province. Although the deal is no longer viable, the province faces a brave new world. “New Brunswick will never look at Energy the same” quoted J. Michael Murphy, Chair of the Saint John Board of Trade’s Energy Task Force.

“The momentum that has been created must be continued and utilized to ensure all parties remain engaged and contribute to the development of a comprehensive energy policy which will need to address the concerns of businesses and citizens while mitigating the risks involved” said Imelda Gilman, President of the Saint John Board of Trade. “We need to have a clear, non-partisan, long-term vision for energy in our province; our citizens and businesses depend on competitive, clean, reliable energy. This vision is needed as soon as possible.”

Ideally, a comprehensive energy policy will also incorporate a variety of aspects surrounding energy including the regulatory framework and energy efficiencies. “This is a prime opportunity for the Department of Energy to develop a ground breaking energy policy. The Saint John Board of Trade is prepared to be part of the process and we are ready to help be part of the solution” Ms. Gilman continued. “We encourage all interested businesses and citizens in New Brunswick to continue that dialogue regarding the future of energy in our province and the immediate need for a comprehensive energy plan.”

The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. The elected Board of Directors is representative of the diversity of the membership and their concerns.