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Earlier this month I dropped by the Grand Bay-Westfield office of MLA Jack Keir. I wanted to find out from him what his main issues and priorities are for 2009. Keir is probably one of the busiest politicians in Fredericton. He’s not only the MLA for Fundy River Valley but also the Minister of Energy, Minister Responsible for Energy Efficiency and the Minister of Supply and Services. We covered a lot of ground in the interview and you can hear the entire audio interview by going to our webpage at rivervalleynews.ca and clicking on River Valley Radio. Here is a brief description of some of the highlights.
The biggest issue Keir sees for 2009 is the affect of the uncertain economy. He feels our area is going to be somewhat cushioned because of developments in the energy sector but he says we’re still going to feel it. Keir says we need a provincial stimulus package that will put people back to work.
Keir says he expects to hear a positive announcement regarding the next phase of Point Lepreau ll within the next couple of months. The next step includes an Environmental Impact Assessment and a site licensing application. He says he’s 80% confident the next stage will move forward but it doesn’t necessarily mean a second reactor will be built. But he’s hopeful. The final decision is still two or three years away.
On the alternative energy front, Keir says he’s most proud of what the government has done with renewable energy over the last couple of years. He says wind farms are coming on line and tidal power is being seriously considered for the Bay of Fundy. He says 15 potential sites are now being analyzed.
Closer to home, Keir says he appreciates the impact the problems with the Westfield Ferry are having, especially for people living on the Kingston Peninsula. He says the ferry freezing up in the ice was a problem last winter as well. He says the Department of Transportation is doing all it can to remedy the situation. Keir says staff have been working since Christmas Eve trying to free the ferry. He doesn’t know why it’s happening but he says it has to be resolved.
Keir says the Welsford Bypass is progressing. He says the budget is in place and agreements have been worked out with most of the landowners. Construction is due to start in the spring.
He also says the Route 7 Interchange at Highland Road and the new collector road are getting closer. Keir says it’s needed if the town of Grand Bay-Westfield is going to grow. He says he’s been working hard with the mayor and the federal government on this project.
