University of Moncton biologist Louis LaPierre released his report today following public meetings around the province this summer.
LaPierre says a moratorium on shale gas development as sought by the Opposition Liberals would stop research and not benefit the province. But interim Liberal Leader Victor Boudreau says research can happen without allowing commercial development. LaPierre says a portion of any shale gas developed in New Brunswick should be reserved for use within the province.
Energy Minister Craig Leonard calls the report ``intriguing'' but says he needs more time to study it.
Opponents of shale gas development are concerned that water could become contaminated as a result of shale gas fracking.
Fracking involves the injection of pressurized water and chemicals to release trapped pockets of natural gas.
Courtesy of the Canadian Press.