Working together to protect belugas

The combined efforts of citizens, environmentalists and the NDP have paid off—TransCanada has finally decided to scrap its oil port project in Cacouna, Quebec.

“This is proof that by working together, we can ensure that the environment is protected - despite resistance from a Conservative government that doesn’t respect Canadians,” said NDP Energy and Natural Resources critic Guy Caron (Rimouski-Neigette—Témiscouata-Les Basques). “We’re relieved that the beluga nurseries will be safe.”

New Democrats have been working to convince the Conservative government to reject all future oil port projects in Gros-Cacouna. The area includes the natural habitat of an endangered species, the St. Lawrence Beluga.

The NDP tabled a motion in Parliament to reject the project, which the Liberals and Conservatives voted against.

“This would be a victory for citizens and send a clear message to the Conservatives and Liberals to put the interests of the environment and the community before those of private corporations,” added MP François Lapointe (Montmagny—L’Islet—Kamouraska—Rivière-du-Loup).