Tulita meeting wraps up Sahtu sessions on N.W.T.'s draft fracking rules
Chief Frank Andrew says the community needs jobs but he's not sure fracking is the answer
People in the Sahtu region have had their first say on N.W.T.'s draft hydraulic fracturing regulations after a three-community tour wrapped up last night in Tulita.
Government representatives have been presenting the proposed regulations, but fielding questions on much more.
Gary Yakeleya brought his son to the meeting to learn more about fracking. He said he thinks it could bring needed jobs and opportunity to the community.
"I don't want to scare away something I don't know about because we have nothing else here," he said.
Inside the meeting room most of the conversation focused on safety and the environment.
Tulita Chief Frank Andrew said he wants jobs in his community but he's not sure fracking is the answer and he worries the territorial government is rushing things.
"I want to see my people work but I don't want to see my people hurt," he said.
Wilfred Lennie suggested inviting people from North Dakota to Tulita to talk about fracking because it's "happening under their feet." Andrew said he liked that idea.
The public sessions move to the Deh Cho region next week, with meetings scheduled for April 21 in Fort Simpson, April 22 in Fort Liard and April 23 in Nahanni Butte.
CBC's Peter Sheldon tweeted from the Norman Wells and Tulita meetings on Wednesday. Follow his tweets here.