(FREDERICTON) A coalition of 22 community and environmental groups have issued a joint letter which has been sent today by registered letter to TransCanada, the National Energy Board, and appropriate heads of government departments at the Federal, Provincial and Municipal level.
 
A 6-page work plan has come to their attention which shows TransCanada is days away from borehole testing off the shore of Red Head, New Brunswick in the Bay of Fundy.  One of the large barges necessary for this work is already being put into position.
 
"TransCanada has not informed the residents at the end of the line in Red Head in Saint John,” says Lynaya Astephen, spokesperson for Red Head Anthony’s Cove Preservation Association.  “No testing of wells or foundations has been done.  And this is prime time for migratory birds and the endangered right whale.  There's a lack of transparency with this company."
 
"Notice of the imminent work was kept from our people," confirms Ron Tremblay, spokesperson for the Wolastoq Grand Council.  "As a member of the Wolastoq Grand Council and Wolastoq Nation, I stand firm on the protection of our lands, water and air. The area that the proposed testing will take place is our tradition land and shoreline where our people fished, gathered and flourished from the vast supply of food and medicine. Additional damage to the area will further destroy the traditional territory of the Wolastoq People. I strongly oppose any testing or industrial disaster in our homeland."  
 
“The regulatory and consultation process appears to be missing,” says Caroline Lubbe-D’Arcy, past Co-chair and member of the Council of Canadians – Fredericton chapter.  “If TransCanada has failed to follow due diligence with all necessary government agencies, this really is a wake-up call for how this entire Energy East project may proceed.”
 
In their joint statement, the 22 groups urge TransCanada and appropriate government agencies to act immediately, “Given the lack of consultation and long list of concerns we are requesting that all work on borehole testing be stopped until these concerns are addressed. Why would TransCanada conduct this work just as migratory birds and whales are coming into the Bay of Fundy in increasing numbers in August & September?”

Link to joint letter
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