Green leader slams feds over scope of refinery assessment

The leader of the federal Green party says she's outraged at Ottawa's decision to limit its role in assessing the environmental impact of a proposed Irving Oil refinery in Saint John.

Last week, the Conservative government announced it would only look at the possible impact on coastal areas, leaving the rest of the review process up to the New Brunswick government.

Elizabeth May says that will leave too many questions unanswered.

"What is going to happen to air quality in and around Saint John?" May asked. "What is the impact on air quality here in Nova Scotia, 50 kilometres away? What is going to be the impact in the U.S., 100 kilometres away?

"What does this mean for global climate change? What does this mean for local air quality? None of those questions are going to be properly reviewed with this politically motivated cop-out."

Graham rejects Green criticism

May suggested the federal government was minimizing its role in the EIA process to allow more freedom for the Irvings, with the provincial government taking that lead.

"The reality is, how tough are the Irvings going to be on themselves? I think that's a question that answers itself," she said.

New Brunswick PremierShawn Grahaminsists his government will take the lead role, and the refinery project will be subjected to the most stringent environmental review process in provincial history.

That means extra effort and expense, but Graham said there will be help from the federal government.

"We're going to be using the resources of some of their personnel as well, but I'm happy that New Brunswick is taking the lead, because with New Brunswick stakeholders being involved in the process, we can push for the implementation of the best technologies and the best sciences."

May wants New Brunswickers and others to demand a larger federal role in the review process. She said they have until the end of June to make their voices heard.

The federal government has not yet responded to a request for comment.