New Brunswick Premier weighs into the federal election campaign
The Premier of New Brunswick is taking shots at three national party leaders for their positions on the Energy East pipeline project.
The $12-billion project would take Western oil all the way to St. John, New Brunswick.
In an interview with CBC Radio's The House, Brian Gallant called Energy East "a project we need to seriously look at as a country."
"This is something that has the opportunity to create thousands of jobs. It will help stimulate the economy at a time when we need it," he said.
The Premier was particularly harsh towards NDP Leader Tom Mulcair. He argues Mulcair has been unclear about his position of late, after appearing to be in support of the pipeline in the past.
"Recently, that certainly hasn't been the case," Gallant said. "This is unfortunate."
Another "unfortunate" leader reaction for Gallant? That of federal Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau, who has also refused to give his full support to the Energy East project while the assessment process is ongoing.
"It would be nice to have some moral support," said Gallant, who will not be actively campaigning for Trudeau.
And the only party openly supporting the project? Gallant doesn't think the Conservatives have been able to deliver anything beyond words.
"I think the Conservatives are supportive, but it's important to note, however, that under the Harper government, there hasn't been one pipeline built," Gallant said.
The Liberal Premier said that may partly be due to Stephen Harper's record on tackling climate change.
"Many will argue it's because he has lost trust when it comes to taking action on climate change and protecting the environment. You need to be able to show that people can trust you're going to protect the environment."
There are concerns on the environmental front when it comes to Energy East.
This week, the Ontario Energy Board concluded that the environmental risks of the pipeline project outweigh the potential benefits.
Gallant said he wants the project done in a responsible way, but make no mistake — the future of Energy East will play a significant role in how voters in New Brunswick view the election.
When asked if the pipeline will be a ballot box question, Gallant said it fits into the "larger narrative of who has the best economic plan."
"I think this will serve as one of the major pillars of the campaign," he said.